“As he was praying, the appearance of his face changed and his clothes flashed white like lightening.” Luke 9:29

Dear Friends:

There are all kinds of ways to picture Jesus. On a mountain top praying; surrounded by questionable characters; sitting rabbinic style teaching; feeding thousands of hungry folks; extending a healing touch; preaching the kingdom of God is with us. On Sunday we’ll picture Jesus transfigured all sparkly and flashy white like lightening. Jesus’ disciples don’t really understand Jesus all transfigured. What they learn, though, is following Jesus Christ is an ongoing journey of inquiry that leads us all to a transfigured life.

Beginning in the early fall a journey of inquiry will be offered for both youth and adults through at ten week Confirmation class on Sunday mornings from 11:30-12:30. Two classes, one for youth and one for adults will run parallel each Sunday beginning October 1. Classes will continue, October 15, 22, 29, November 5, 19, 26, and December 3. As part of our journey in learning how God calls us to serve, class participants are encouraged to serve with the Hypothermia Shelter December 24-31.

Youth grade six and older are encouraged to begin the journey of inquiry with a Lock In Friday September 22. Youth and adults wishing to make a mature commitment to the faith through the sacrament of Confirmation, or be Received into the Episcopal Church from another denomination, or Reaffirm your Confirmation commitment, or become a member of the body of Christ through Holy Baptism, are welcome to participate in this season of inquiry. All those simply searching, wondering, inquiring are encouraged to join in these teachings October 1-December 3.

While all adults are invited to participate in this journey, parents are particularly encouraged to take part as a sign of support of their youth on the journey. Class time for both youth and adults will include a romp through the Bible, a look at our church history, an exploration of prayer, a study of our Book of Common Prayer, the significance of sacraments in our life’s journey, our spiritual gifts given to us through the Holy Spirit, and how we’re called to use our gifts through serving others. As well, throughout the weeks youth will be planning and preparing a pilgrimage. A pilgrim is one who is in search of their knowledge of God in Christ. A pilgrim is sent and learns, shares, receives and gives to, with and through those to whom they are sent. The journey of inquiry known as Confirmation Class is intended to transform and transfigure us all.

Be a part of this dynamic journey of growing deeper in the faith. Youth are encouraged to reach out to Dana Hale, Minister of Children, Youth and Families at education@coee.org. Adults, please contact Hillary at clergy@coee.org or give us a call at 703-466-5200.

Meanwhile, on Sunday, we’ll worship at 8:30 with a look at Jesus’ Transfiguration on the mountaintop. Family Worship at 10:00 will include some shimmering, shiny splendor as well, especially with the Praise Band playing. Kids are always encouraged to be a part of the Family Worship with the message and through offering coins for Christ dropped in the buckets during the offertory. Following Family Worship we will feast on a pot luck meal. Round out your weekend with the gentle stillness and flowing sounds of Sunday evening 5:30 Celtic Worship, a time of peaceful reflection and sharing in the Lord’s Supper.

Once again, it is a true gift to travel along with you on our journey of inquiry, learning who we are in Christ. I look forward to growing in the faith with you. See you Sunday! A good place to start!

Many blessings,

Hillary