July/August 2021 T h e C o u r i e r
A Monthly Publication of The Inter-Faith Chapel A House of Prayer for All People
From the desk of Rev. Dr. Woodie Rea
One of my favorite “Family Circus” comics has Billy and Dolly on chairs looking out their large living room window. Billy says, “I see a bird, a sandbox, a ball, and a flower.” Dolly replies, “I see a smudge, a handprint, a chocolate smear, and some dirt.” Billy then responds, “Dolly, windows are for looking through, not for looking at.”
We have been looking through, and at, a lot of windows lately.
Many of us have spent plenteous hours over this past year looking through the windows of our homes. For some, this has been a principal view of the outside world. Others have even learned to mark the time of day by the various events they routinely see as they look through their window.
There is another type of window that many of us have spent substantial time looking at over these past months. I am speaking of the “Windows” operating system that runs the funda- mental functions on many of our computers. These “Windows” grant us a large view of our world and have been a way of staying connected and communicating with others in our line of vision.
I am aware that I look through, and at, various types of windows. From the beautiful stained glass windows in our sanctuary, to my office windows looking out on our courtyard, to a small window roughly the size of a deck of cards – the rectangle on my phone screen. All of these windows provide me with an opportunity to see beyond myself and extend my vision of the world.
Windows are little picture frames designed to call our attention to something larger. Pausing and looking through a window involves more than the literal view we encounter, it includes being still, being aware of our surroundings, and offering a moment of appreciation for a blessing. Windows can be avenues and instruments of prayer.
The Talmud tells us, “A person should always pray in a house where there are windows.” This appears to be drawn from the book of Daniel as he went up to his room, opened wide his windows, and, while looking heavenward, offered his prayers to God. For Daniel, this simple but courageous act of praying through a window was a declaration of his faith that the Lord was near, and his confidence that the Lord would hear his prayer.
~Continued on page 2
Page 2 THE JULY/AUGUST 2021COURIER
Continued from page 1
Even today, windows can help us concen- trate our thoughts, encourage our hearts, and calm our spirits. Looking out a window, and Prayer of the month in that moment appreciating the beauty and JULY goodness of life, isn’t a waste of time…it is an exercise in prayer. Long warm days… The pace of life slows… There has been increased excitement about A time for picnics and rest in the shade… getting our doors open here at The IFC and returning to in-person worship. Faithfulness Lord, in ministry isn’t just about keeping the doors help me to rest a while of the church open, it is about keeping the in the cooling shade of Your presence. windows open as well. The windows of Slow down my restless heart faith and hope, the windows of our hearts and fill me with gentle compassion and spirits, and the windows of welcome for all Your people. and hospitality are what make us, and keep us, the loving and caring congregation that Amen. we are. UPPER ROOM DEVOTIONAL BOOKS Take some time to sit in front of a window every once in a while. Let your eyes focus We have received our order on what you see through the glass. Look of July-August Upper Room into the reflection where you can pray and devotional books. find peace, and you will see a world full of promise and possibilities. Copies are placed in a basket outside the front doors of the Our windows are open. Come on by and Chapel for pick-up. These take a look. I hope to be seeing you! will be available Monday—Friday from 9:00 am—3:00 pm.
Reflectively, Take a walk or drive by and pick up a copy. If you are not able to pick up a copy, please -Woodie ask a neighbor or friend to pick one up for you. *A pamphlet describing our stained glass windows is available in the narthex for a Important! self-guided devotional tour. Sunday Service Reminder
at 10:00 AM with 100 per- In Memoriam sons to attend. Worshippers Esther Spence will be expected to be fully April 24, 2021 vaccinated and will be re- William Matthews quired to wear face masks June 19, 2021 and maintain social dis- tancing, with no hugs or handshakes.
Page 3 THE JULY/AUGUST 2021COURIER
Prayer of the month AUGUST
A Morning Prayer by William Barclay
O God, our Loving Parent, grant us Your blessing as we go out to meet this day. Grant unto us this day lips which speak the truth, but which ever speak the truth in love. Grant unto us minds which seek the truth; and grant that we may face the truth even when it hurts and condemns us, and that we may never shut our eyes to that which we do not wish to see. Grant us hands which work with diligence, and which yet have time to
help another with his task. Grant us resolution to stand for principle; but save us from stubbornness, and from magnifying trifles into principles. Grant unto us grace to conquer our temptations and to live in purity but save us from the self-righteousness which would look down on anyone who has fallen by the way. All through this day grant unto us the strength and the gentleness of our blessed Lord. This we ask for Your love’s sake. Amen
An Evening Prayer by William Barclay
O God, our Loving Parent, there are things in today which make us sorry when we remember them. Forgive us if we have lost our temper with the people who get on our nerves. Forgive us if we have been cross and irritable with those who are nearest and dearest to us. Forgive us if at any time we were discourteous and impolite to those with whom we came in contact today. Forgive us if we have thoughtlessly or deliberately hurt anyone’s feelings today. O God, there are things in today which make us glad when we remember them. We thank You for any lovely thing that we have seen, for any wise thing that we have heard, and for any good thing that we have been enabled to do. We thank You for the time we have spent with our family and friends whom we love. O God, our Loving Parent, accept our sorrow for our sins and our gratitude for Your gifts before we sleep this night; through Jesus the Christ our Lord. Amen.
Page 4 THE JULY/AUGUST 2021COURIER Lectio Divina Listening to the word of God in Scripture (Lectio Divina) is a way of cultivating friendship with Christ. It is a way of listening to the texts of Scripture as if we were in conversation with Christ and He were suggesting the topics of conversation. The daily encounter with Christ and reflection on His word leads beyond mere acquaintance- ship to an attitude of friendship, trust, and love. Conversation sim- plifies and gives way to communing. It is also a way of expressing “resting in God.” JULY Thursday, July 1 Psalm 48; 2 Samuel 2:1-11; 1 Corinthians 4:8-13 Friday, July 2 Psalm 48; 2 Samuel 3:1-12; 2 Corinthians 10:7-11 Saturday, July 3 Psalm 48; 2 Samuel 3:31-38; Matthew 8:18-22 Sunday, July 4 Mark 6:1-13 Monday, July 5 Psalm 21; 2 Samuel 5:1-10; 2 Corinthians 11:16-33 Tuesday, July 6 Psalm 21; 2 Samuel 5:11-16; James 5:7-12 Wednesday, July 7 Psalm 21; 2 Samuel 5:17-25; John 7:1-9 Thursday, July 8 Psalm 24; Exodus 25:10-22; Colossians 2:1-5 Friday, July 9 Psalm 24; Exodus 37:1-16; Colossians 4:2-18 Saturday, July 10 Psalm 24; Numbers 10:11-36; Luke 1:57-80 Sunday, July 11 Mark 6:14-29 Monday, July 12 Psalm 68:24-35; 2 Samuel 6:6-12a; Acts 21:27-39 Tuesday, July 13 Psalm 68:24-35; 2 Samuel 3:12-16; Acts 23:12-35 Wednesday, July 14 Psalm 68:24-35; 2 Samuel 6:16-23; Luke 7:31-35 Thursday, July 15 Psalm 89:20-37; 1 Chronicles 11:15-19; Colossians 1:15-23 Friday, July 16 Psalm 89:20-37; 1 Chronicles 14:1-2; Acts 17:16-31 Saturday, July 17 Psalm 89:20-37; 1 Chronicles 15:1-2, 16:4-13; Luke 18:35-43 Sunday, July 18 Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 Monday, July 19 Psalm 61; 2 Samuel 7:18-29; Hebrews 13:17-25 Tuesday, July 20 Psalm 61; 2 Samuel 8:1-18; Acts 20:17-38 Wednesday, July 21 Psalm 61; 2 Samuel 9:1-13; Luke 15:1-7 Thursday, July 22 Psalm 14; 2 Samuel 10:1-5; Colossians 1:9-14 Friday, July 23 Psalm 14; 2 Samuel 10:6-12; Colossians 3:12-17 Saturday, July 24 Psalm 14; 2 Samuel 10:13-19; John 4:31-38 Sunday, July 25 John 6:1-21 Monday, July 26 Psalm 37:12-22; 2 Samuel 11:14-21; Philippians 4:10-20 Tuesday, July 27 Psalm 37:12-22; 2 Samuel 11:22-27; Romans 15:22-33 Wednesday, July 28 Psalm 37:12-22; 2 Chronicles 9:29-31; Mark 6:35-44 Thursday, July 29 Psalm 51:1-12; Exodus 32:19-26a; 1 Corinthians 11:17-22 Friday, July 30 Psalm 51:1-12; Joshua 23:1-16; 1 Corinthians 11:27-34 Saturday, July 31 Psalm 51:1-12; Judges 6:1-10; Matthew 16:5-12
Page 5 THE JULY/AUGUST 2021COURIER
August
Sunday, August 1 John 6:24-35 Monday, August 2 Psalm 50:16-23; 2 Samuel 12:15-25; Ephesians 4:17-24 Tuesday, August 3 Psalm 50:16-23; 2 Samuel 13:1-19; 1 Corinthians 12:27-31 Wednesday, August 4 Psalm 50:16-23; 2 Samuel 13:20-36; Mark 8:1-10 Thursday, August 5 Psalm 130; 2 Samuel 13:37-14:24; Romans 15:1-6 Friday, August 6 Psalm 130; 2 Samuel 14:25-33; Galatians 6:1-10 Saturday, August 7 Psalm 130; 2 Samuel 15:1-13; Matthew 7:7-11 Sunday, August 8 John 6:35, 41-51 Monday, August 9 Psalm 57; 2 Samuel 15:13-31; Ephesians 5:1-14 Tuesday, August 10 Psalm 57; 2 Samuel 18:19-33; 2 Peter 3:14-18 Wednesday, August 11 Psalm 57; 2 Samuel 19:1-18; John 6:35-40 Thursday, August 12 Psalm 111; 1 Kings 1:1-30; Acts 6:8-15 Friday, August 13 Psalm 111; 1 Kings 1:28-48; Romans 16:17-20 Saturday, August 14 Psalm 111; 1 Kings 2:1-11; John 4:7-26 Sunday, August 15 John 6:51-58 Monday, August 16 Psalm 101; 1 Kings 3:16-28; Acts 6:1-7 Tuesday, August 17 Psalm 101; 1 Kings 7:1-12; Acts 7:9-16 Wednesday, August 18 Psalm 101; 1 Kings 8:1-21; Mark 8:14-21 Thursday, August 19 Psalm 84; 1 Kings 4:20-28; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 Friday, August 20 Psalm 84; 1 Kings 4:29-34; Romans 13:11-14 Saturday, August 21 Psalm 84; 1 Kings 5:1-12; Luke 11:5-13 Sunday, August 22 John 6:56-69 Monday, August 23 Psalm 11; 1 Kings 5:13-18; Ephesians 5:21-6:9 Tuesday, August 24 Psalm 11; 1 Kings 6:1-14; Ephesians 6:21-24 Wednesday, August 25 Psalm 11; 1 Kings 6:15-38; John 15:16-25 Thursday, August 26 Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9; Song of Solomon 1:1-17; James 1:1-8 Friday, August 27 Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9; Song of Solomon 2:1-7; James 1:9-16 Saturday, August 28 Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9; Hosea 3:1-5; John 18:28-32 Sunday, August 29 Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 Monday, August 30 Tuesday, August 31 Psalm 144:9-15; Song of Solomon 5:2-6:3; 1 Peter 2:19-25
Page 6 THE JULY/AUGUST 2021COURIER Events Continue... A PICNIC IN THE PARKING LOT Tuesday, July 13th 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM Pack your picnic basket and join us for fellowship! We will remain steadfast in practicing safe social distancing. except when you are eating.
Spaces may be reserved and assigned on a first come, first served basis, beginning Mon- day, June 28. You may also bring your own card table and chairs. Bring your own tablecloth and decorations. Music for the evening will be provided by acoustic cellist Benjamin Gates. Pack your hand sanitizer and wipes so you are equipped to celebrate with the community while being wise. The chapel’s restrooms will be available.
Gather outside with us and enjoy music by local artists! 4th Wednesdays from 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM July 28 Classical and Popular Charles Village Brass August 25 Acoustic/Folk/Country Safe Harbor September 22 Gospel Linda Whiting
Out of an abundance of caution, please note the following policies will be in place for our summer outdoor concert events.
You are invited to bring your lawn chair and sit in the designated areas. Feel free to bring your own snacks and beverages. The chapel’s restrooms will be available. Please follow posted physical distancing guide- lines and use hand sanitizer or soap and water. If you are feeling sick, please refrain from attending.
While this event is FREE, a love offering will be taken for the performers. We are asking you to make reservations for each event. You may call 301-598-5312 or email [email protected] to reserve your space. Let’s come together and enjoy good music and great fellowship. We hope to see you there!
Page 7 THE JULY/AUGUST 2021COURIER
Carmen’s Ice Cream Truck Is Coming! CARMEN’S ITALIAN ICE AND FROZEN CUSTARD Bring a friend and join us in The Inter-Faith Chapel parking lot Tuesday, August 10th 6:00 PM — 7:30 PM Cost: $5.00 per serving
Register by calling 301-598-5312 or emailing [email protected]
Classical and Popular Music by the Charles Village Brass on July 28th
Acoustic/Folk/Country with Safe Harbor on August 25th
Gospel Music with Linda Whiting on September 22th
Acoustic Cellist Benjamin Gates will provide music for our Picnic in the Parking Lot on Tuesday, July 13th
Page 8 THE JULY/AUGUST 2021 COURIER FARMERS’ MARKET STARTS ON AUGUST 5TH
Welcome back to the folks from Red Wiggler Farm! Fresh produce is once again available.
Red Wiggler Farm will be at The Inter-Faith Chapel parking lot on Thursdays August 5, August 12, and August 19 from 9:00 AM—11:00 AM. Fresh items such as tomatoes, peppers, corn, melons, peaches, and herbs will be available for purchase. The produce may sell out prior to 11:00 AM so come early.
The Chapel supports Red Wiggler through mission donations and the farm provides employ- ment to adults with developmental disabilities. The farm was founded in 1996 and continues to extend its vocational education program and promotion of environmental stewardship each year. Red Wiggler Farm is located in northern Montgomery County.
Prayer Warriors of the Inter-Faith Chapel
Affiliates and Friends Residing in Nursing Care Facilities Each month, we ask that you send a birthday card or note to those celebrating birth-
July 17 Sadie Nelson 12642 Grey Eagle Court Apt 14 Germantown, MD 20874-5315
Page 9 THE JULY/AUGUST 2021COURIER Director of Music Announces Retirement
Dear Friends:
Kevin M. Clemens
Page 10 THE JULY/AUGUST 2021COURIER July is Social August Healthy Month—Easing Wellness Month Summer Swelling
Here are four tips to help reduce puffiness in your feet and ankles: Cut down on your salt intake Put your feet up when sitting or lying Wear support stockings Get moving, exercise and walk
While in most instances, swelling has a harmless cause, this should be brought to the attention of your doctor. Have a wonderful summer.
Andra Matthews, RN, BSN, CM Andra Matthews, RN, BSN, CM
SUMMER CONCERT KICK-OFF A BIG SUCCESS We are glad you were here! Plan to be with us for the rest of the summer concert series. See pages 6 and 7 for more information.
Page 11 THE JULY/AUGUST 2021COURIER
Q: What is a dentist favorite hymn? Q. How do we know Peter was a rich fisherman? A. Crown Him with Many Crowns A: By his net income. Q: Who was the greatest comedian in the Bible? Q: On the ark, Noah probably got milk from the A: Samson. He brought the house down. cows. What did he get from the ducks? Q: At what time of day was Adam created? A. Quackers A: A little before Eve Q: Did Eve ever have a date with Adam? Q: Where was Solomon’s temple located? A: Nope — just an apple. A: On the side of his head Q: What do we have that Adam never had? Q: Where is the first tennis match mentioned in A: Ancestors. the Bible? Q: How do groups of angels greet each other? A. When Joseph served in Pharaoh’s court A: Halo, halo, halo!
Non Profit Organization THE INTER-FAITH CHAPEL U. S. Postage Paid 3680 S. LEISURE WORLD BLVD Suburban MD 20906 SILVER SPRING MD 20906 PERMIT NO. 0 2 3 3 8
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
phone 301-598-5312 www.inter-faithchapel.org
Rev. Dr. Woodie Rea, Senior Minister
Rev. Dr. Ramonia L. Lee, Minister of Congregational Life
Kevin M. Clemens, Director of Music
Bonnie B. Bonner, Administrator
Joy M. Dufour, Administrative Assistant
Steve Buck, Gary Carpenter Video Technicians and Chapel Sextons