Merry Christmas!

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

 

That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.

God became human.

Yet God didn't just fashion a new body and then strut into town as a powerful and merciful conquerer, fixing all that was wrong.

God didn't choose to be born a prince or to a family of power.

 

God became weak and powerless...experienced the depths of humanity.

God became flesh as a baby born to unwed peasants far from home alongside animals.

Love became flesh: Jesus.

 

God did this for you, for me, for all who experience brokenness, for all who have experienced love or joy, for all who feel like the world is crazy, for all of humanity and all of creation...

 

And now we celebrate this unlikely birth. 

Christmas, the celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ.  All praise to God!

 

Have a very merry and joyful Christmas!

 

Grace and peace,

Ben

 

 

(12/12) Playing with kids to make a more joyful Christmas, Quotes, and more!

Good luck on finals!  Remember that even during these stressful times, God is with you.  Our thoughts and prayers are with you over break as you travel, spend time with family and friends, and celebrate the birth of Christ.  Below is information on our last event of the semester this Sunday -- and a request for your quotes or stories...

STUDY BREAK: Help make Christmas more JOYFUL for families in need:  We'll help out at shopping day at the Katherine K Hanley Shelter by playing with kids while parents shop, or maybe wrapping gifts and acting as personal shoppers.  Sunday, December 14th meeting at the 20 minute parking behind SUB I at 12:30pm.  We'll return by 3:30pm, so you can get back to studying.  Facebook event .

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS:  WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE LUTHERAN CAMPUS MINISTRY STORIES?  We'd love to collect some of your thoughts or experiences on LCM and our events.  Whether it is a single sentence or a few paragraphs, your quotes and stories matter to us -- and to the local congregations that provide the funding that makes our ministry possible.  Write about service events, the fall retreat, Hunger and Homelessness Action Week, 747, or what LCM means to you.  (These may be used on our websites or in brochures, newsletters, or fund raising letters.)  Send your thoughts, quotes, stories, pictures, and/or questions to lutheran@gmu.edu 

"ALTERNATIVE" SPRING BREAK TRIP: Spend your spring break helping families in the continuing disaster recovery efforts along the gulf coast.  No experience necessary, as we will learn how to do whatever is needed once there.  Please let us know if you are thinking of going.  Facebook event .

REFLECTIONS FOR THE JOURNEY -- Lutheran Campus Ministry and United College Ministries are providing a daily meditation guide for students, written by those involved with the University Lutheran Center at South Dakota State University.  Contact lutheran@gmu.edu for your copy.  (You can subscribe a different email devotional here or view online here .)

747 WILL RESUME NEXT SEMESTER:  Starting January 21st, we'll meet every Wednesday at 7:47pm.  See http://GMU747.org for locations.  Also, let us know if you want to be part of a team helping to plan worship one week.    

Dear Lord, we thank you for being present with our community.  As we look toward break, may be go forth into the world to serve God with gladness; be of good courage; hold fast to that which is good; render to no one evil for evil; strengthen the fainthearted; support the weak; help the afflicted; honor all people; love and serve God, rejoicing in the power the Holy Spirit.  Thanks be to God!  AMEN.

747 at the Mathy House & Playing with kids to make a more joyful Christmas

This week is the last 747 of the semester, and it will be at the Mathy House, home of President and Mrs. Merten.  It is looking to be a wonderful evening with good food, great music, and a celebratory Advent worship service.  There is still space for a some more people, so invite your friends, but please make sure you and they RSVP either on Facebook or at http://gmu747.org (we want to make sure we have enough space on the bus).  A few transportation details:

-- We'll load the bus starting at 6:30pm on Wednesday, December 10th, by the bus shelter in front of Parking Services (between the Sandy Creek Parking Deck and Enterprise Hall).
-- Look for a white bus with blue lettering saying "Lord of Life Lutheran Church" (they've been kind enough to volunteer to provide transportation for us!)

-- The bus will leave campus around 6:40pm, and we expect to be back on campus by 9:10pm so everyone can get back to studying for finals and such.

STUDY BREAK: Help make Christmas more JOYFUL for families in need:  We'll help out at shopping day at the Katherine K Hanley Shelter by playing with kids while parents shop, or maybe wrapping gifts and acting as personal shoppers.  Sunday, December 14th meeting at the 20 minute parking behind SUB I at 12:30pm.  We'll return by 3:30pm, so you can get back to studying.  Facebook event .

"ALTERNATIVE" SPRING BREAK TRIP: Spend your spring break helping families in the continuing disaster recovery efforts along the gulf coast.  No experience necessary, as we will learn how to do whatever is needed once there.  Please let us know if you are thinking of going.  Facebook event .

REFLECTIONS FOR THE JOURNEY -- Lutheran Campus Ministry and United College Ministries are providing a daily meditation guide for students, written by those involved with the University Lutheran Center at South Dakota State University.  Contact lutheran@gmu.edu for your copy.  (You can subscribe a different email devotional here or view online here .)

Grace and peace,

Ben

--
"Now there is no godlessness, no hatred, no sin which God has not carried, suffered, and atoned. Now there is no reality, no world that is not reconciled and in peace with God. God did this in the beloved son Jesus Christ."  ~ Dietrich Bonhoeffer

(12/1) Advent meditations, 747 at the Mathy House, Christmas party, Adopt-A-Family, and more!

The fatal trampling of a Wal-Mart staffer by shoppers trying to get the best deals on "black Friday" has a lot of people talking.  It sounds like the shoppers at that store were more upset that the store closed for a few hours, than that a person died.  Advent is a time of expectant waiting, preparation, and celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ.  It's great to give gifts to our friends and family, but the consumerist way that we celebrate Christmas has gotten out of control.  I encourage you to take time this Advent to focus on Jesus.  Spend time with scripture and think about what the birth of this child means for you, and for the world.

REFLECTIONS FOR THE JOURNEY -- Lutheran Campus Ministry and United College Ministries are providing a daily meditation guide for students, written by those involved with the University Lutheran Center at South Dakota State University.  Contact lutheran@gmu.edu for your copy.  (You can subscribe a different email devotional here or view online here .)

747 this week will be in SUB I meeting room B (on the 3rd floor).  All are welcome, and every week is different.  If you haven't checked it out yet, what are you waiting for?  Feed your hunger for community Wednesday, 12/3 at 7:47pm.

CHRISTMAS PARTY: On Friday, Dec. 5th, we'll gather on campus to watch Christmas movies, eat holiday cookies, hang out, etc.  3pm-9pm.  Contact lutheran@gmu.edu for more address and other details, or RSVP for the Facebook event!

747 will be at the Mathy House on Wednesday, December 10th -- Join the celebration as we explore the coming of Jesus the Christ, not merely as a historic event, but as something we can anticipate. What does it mean to wait for Jesus to come?  There will be socializing, refreshments, music, and worship including song, discussion, and communion.  The Mathy House is the home of President and Mrs. Merten, who have graciously allowed us to use their home for this event. Transportation will be provided by a local congregation who has offered us use of their bus, so invite your friends. We want to make sure that we have enough space and food for everyone, so please RSVP by emailing rsvp@gmu747.org , submitting the form at GMU747.org , or joining the Facebook event.

STUDY BREAK: Help make Christmas more JOYFUL for families in need:  We'll help out at shopping day at the Katherine K Hanley Shelter by playing with kids while parents shop, or maybe wrapping gifts and acting as personal shoppers.  Sunday, December 14th meeting at the 20 minute parking behind SUB I at 12:30pm.  We'll return by 3:30pm, so you can get back to studying.  Facebook event .

"ALTERNATIVE" SPRING BREAK TRIP: Spend your spring break helping families in the continuing disaster recovery efforts along the gulf coast.  No experience necessary, as we will learn how to do whatever is needed once there.  Please let us know if you are thinking of going.

 

TABLE TALK:  Joining our UCM friends for their weekly Table Talk every Thursday at 7pm at St. George's United Methodist Church (4910 Ox Rd, Fairfax -- just south of Braddock).  Free food and fellowship!  All are welcome. Email dmay@gmu.edu for more information.

==================== 

Lord, help us to step outside the consumerist chaos of our culture, to spend this Advent focusing on you.  Help us to see you more clearly during these weeks.  In Christ we pray, AMEN.

==================== 

In general, ALL students, faculty, or staff at GMU or any other college in northern Virginia are invited and welcomed at our events. Being "Lutheran" is never expected or required. All times, dates, and locations are subject to change. Check for updates at http://gmu.edu/org/lutheran or the "GMU Lutherans" Facebook group -- also, friend LCM here.

(11/19) Food at 747, Sleep out, Walkathon, Christmas party, more!

Tonight (Wed. 11/19), there will be food before 747 -- come to SUB1 meeting room B on the 3rd floor.  Food will arrive at 7pm, worship will begin at 7:47pm.

HUNGER AND HOMELESS ACTION WEEK is here (November 16-22)!  For more information, join theHHAW Facebook group or visit the website!  Looking for a way to help out?  I'm told "WE NEED MORE PEOPLE AT HEADQUARTERS THURSDAY! If you can be there, please show up to help ... we need more hands."  This is on the North Plaza form 11am-3pm.

Also, don't forget:

Thurs (11/20)  SLEEP OUT against homelessness (North Plaza, 10pm until 7am on Friday)

Looking for an experience that will challenge you with the reality of homelessness? Grab a friend and head to the North Plaza on Thursday at 10PM to experience first hand what it's like to spend the night sleeping on cold pavement...

*** NOTE ***: Beth Porterfield will speak at 10:30 PM about her experiences with homelessness. She spent a year traveling the USA voluntarily homeless to understand poverty in different cities and states around the country, and she worked with the homeless in DC and in Anchorage, AK for several years as a caseworker.  (Beth works for Hope Lutheran Church, which is one of the congregations that sponsors Lutheran Campus Ministry at GMU.)  Don't miss it!

Sat (11/22)  Help the Homeless Walkathon (National Mall, leaving GMU at 6:45pm)
We're sponsoring this!  Team up with Lutheran Campus Ministry and tens of thousands of other people to work toward preventing and ending homelessness in our region.  The money raised by our team will benefit Shelter House, Inc., which is an organization in Fairfax, VA that offers temporary housing to homeless families and helps them transition to a permanent home and stable family life.  Visit http://tinyurl.com/6jyf9h to register for our team!  (Bring your friends -- no one needs to be "Lutheran" to come to our events -- ALL are welcome!)  Email lutheran@gmu.edu for more information

CHRISTMAS PARTY: On Friday, December 5th, we'll gather on campus to watch Christmas movies, hang out, and have a white elephant gift exchange.  More details coming soon!

747 will be at the Mathy House on Wednesday, December 10th -- Join the celebration as we explore the coming of Jesus the Christ, not merely as a historic event, but as something we can anticipate. What does it mean towait for Jesus to come?  There will be socializing, refreshments, music, and worship including song, discussion, and communion.  The Mathy House is the home of President and Mrs. Merten, who have graciously allowed us to use their home for this event. Transportation will be provided by a local congregation who has offered us use of their bus, so invite your friends. We want to make sure that we have enough space and food for everyone, so please RSVP by either emailing rsvp@gmu747.org  or fill out the RSVP form at GMU747.org 

There will also be another service event on either the evening of Friday 12/12 or the afternoon of Sunday 12/14.  Stay tuned!

LUTHERAN STUDENT MOVEMENT NATIONAL GATHERING:  Spend December 31st - January 4th at the Downtown Westin in Chicago at this gathering open to all college students across the country.  Be "Transformed to Reach Out!" while staying on "The Magnificent Mile".  Please talk to me ASAP if you are interested in going.

 

"ALTERNATIVE" SPRING BREAK TRIP: Spend your spring break helping families in the continuing disaster recovery efforts along the gulf coast.  No experience necessary, as we will learn how to do whatever is needed once there.  Please let us know if you are thinking of going.

 

TABLE TALK:  Joining our UCM friends for their weekly Table Talk every Thursday at 7pm at St. George's United Methodist Church (4910 Ox Rd, Fairfax -- just south of Braddock).  Free food and fellowship!  All are welcome. Email dmay@gmu.edu for more information.

==================== 

Oh God, sometimes we are lonely.  Sometimes we feel so caught up in the stress of things, that it feels overwhelming.  Help us to find meaning in community.  Help us to see your face in those around us.  Hold us together in Christ.  AMEN.

==================== 

There will be much more next semester -- such as playing with Legos, meeting and feeding those living in shelters, Wii night in the JC, Habitat for Humanity builds, movie nights, Bible studies, discussions where we learn about other denominations and faiths, and much more!  Let us know what you are interested in.  

In general, ALL students, faculty, or staff at GMU or any other college in northern Virginia are invited and welcomed at our events. Being "Lutheran" is never expected or required. All times, dates, and locations are subject to change. Check for updates at http://gmu.edu/org/lutheran or the "GMU Lutherans" Facebook group -- also, friend LCM here.

--
"Now there is no godlessness, no hatred, no sin which God has not carried, suffered, and atoned. Now there is no reality, no world that is not reconciled and in peace with God. God did this in the beloved son Jesus Christ."  ~ Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Hunger and Homelessness Action Week

Each year, the GMU Campus Ministry Association sponsors Hunger and Homelessness Action Week, in part because every faith tradition in the association advocates feeding the hungry and caring for the homeless.  This year, HHAW runs November 16-22, so this annual call to action has just begun!  I encourage you all to attend at least one HHAW event, and to commit to doing more to help people who are homeless and/or hungry.  Lutheran Campus Ministry is very involved in planning and running some of these events, and we have other event throughout the year to help the hungry and homeless.  Here's a quick run-down of what's going on this week:

HHAW Headquarters:  North Plaza, Monday-Friday, 11am-3pm

HHAW Website: http://homelessactionweek.com/

Facebook Group: http://groups.to/hhaw

EVENTS:

Sun (11/16)  Brown Bag Sunday (CCM Chapel, 12-5pm)

Make over 100 brown bag lunches and then bring them to homeless men and women in Washington, DC

Mon (11/17)  Hunger Concert: The Braeded Chord (North Plaza, 12-1pm)

The Braeded Chord has won multiple WAMMIE Awards (Washington Area Music Awards) and have a new CD coming out on November 15th!
Stop by to listen and to get information about Hunger and Homelessness Action Week.

Mon (11/17)  Faces of Homelessness Speakers' Bureau (North Plaza, 1:15-2:15pm)

Hear people who are homeless share their personal experiences with homelessness with us, as well as some ideas on how we may work cooperatively to end this disgrace called homelessness.  This is a powerful event that might alter your perceptions of the people who are homeless that you encounter on the streets.

Thurs (11/20)  Hunger Banquet (SUB II rooms 5-7, 5-7pm)

The Center for Leadership and Community Engagement will sponsor an Oxfam hunger banquet in SUB II, rooms 5, 6, and 7. Get an idea of what worldwide hunger is really like through an interactive simulation.

Thurs (11/20)  SLEEP OUT against homelessness (North Plaza, 10pm until 7am on Friday)

Looking for an experience that will challenge you with the reality of homelessness? Grab a friend and head to the North Plaza on Thursday at 10PM to experience first hand what it's like to spend the night sleeping on cold pavement...

*** NOTE ***: Beth Porterfield will speak at 10:30 PM about her experiences with homelessness. She spent a year traveling the USA voluntarily homeless to understand poverty in different cities and states around the country, and she worked with the homeless in DC and in Anchorage, AK for several years as a caseworker.  (Beth works for Hope Lutheran Church, which is one of the congregations that sponsors Lutheran Campus Ministry at GMU.)  Don't miss it!

Sat (11/22)  Help the Homeless Walkathon (National Mall, leaving GMU at 6:45pm)
We're sponsoring this!  Team up with Lutheran Campus Ministry and tens of thousands of other people to work toward preventing and ending homelessness in our region.  The money raised by our team will benefit Shelter House, Inc., which is an organization in Fairfax, VA that offers temporary housing to homeless families and helps them transition to a permanent home and stable family life.  Visit http://tinyurl.com/6jyf9h to register for our team!  (Bring your friends -- no one needs to be "Lutheran" to come to our events -- ALL are welcome!)  Email lutheran@gmu.edu for more information

ALL WEEK DONATION DRIVES:

Food drive – Donate non-perishable food items to help feed people who are hungry in Fairfax county. See the http://homelessactionweek.

com for a list of drop-off locations.

Project Happy Feet – Donate new socks, gloves, and scarves to help homeless men and women keep warm. Bring donations to the LEAD Office, located in SUB I, Room 222.

Living Water – Living Water International provides clean drinking water for millions of people around the world. Monetary donations will be accepted in the North Plaza.

HIPS – Pride Alliance will collect winter clothing, unused beauty supplies for women (particularly lotion, shampoo and conditioner), and gift cards to CVS and supermarkets to benefit HIPS: Helping Individual Prostitutes Survive. Many individuals engaging in sex work in Washington, DC suffer hunger and homelessness. HIPS is a non-profit organization assisting female, male, and transgender individuals in leading healthy lives. A drop-off box will be in the Pride Office in SUB I, Room 223. For more information, check out the HIPS website at http://hips.org and email Pride Alliance at pride@gmu.edu

(11/10) Kids, 747, Games/Legos, social/service in DC, Hunger and Homelessness Action Week, and more!

I'd like to encourage you to come to worship at 747 this week.  I'm not trying to guilt you into coming.  I just know that everyone will learn more if you are there, because we can hear your viewpoint.  Your presence is important to me, because I enjoy learning more about you.  Each of us is important when we come together.  When we gather in community, each of us has something to contribute.  Come find out what it's all about!  747 will be in the JC Bistro this week at 7:47pm on Wednesday!

Join us tonight (Monday 11/10) as we play games with kids to help NOVACO provide a life skills class for mothers who are homeless victims of domestic abuse by playing games with their children!  This is always a ton of fun!  Meet at 6pm outside SUB1 room 207 (the Campus Ministry Office) to carpool.  We'll return to campus by 8:30pm.  Join the Facebook event

Are you interested in a creative Christian worship opportunity?  Join us for 747 this Wednesday (11/12) at 7:47pm in the JC Bistro.  Last week we looked at how reconciliation leads to community.  What will we talk about this week/  Show up to find out!  Also, check out the GMU747 Facebook group! 

This Friday (11/14), we'll gather in SUB1 Patriot's Lounge to play games and build things with Legos from 4pm-6pm.

Interested in meeting students from other colleges to hang out and participate in service together?  Attend the Mid-Atlantic region of the Lutheran Student Movement for a social/service event inWashington, DC.  Crash at St. Paul's Lutheran on Friday (11/14) and spend Saturday (11/15) serving your neighbor and your Lord.  You should be home before 8pm on Saturday.  Let me know if you would like more information.

HUNGER AND HOMELESS ACTION WEEK is coming November 16-22!  For more information, join the HHAW Facebook group or visit the website!  Looking for a way to help out?  

1. Volunteers Needed:  Staff Headquarters --  We are currently in need of VOLUNTEERS to staff our headquarters on the JC North Plaza from 11:00 - 3:00 Monday (11/17) through Friday (11/21).  We are looking for 4 - 5 students and staff to set up and take down, handout information, staff tables, the action tower and corn hole.  Are you able to help? Please email Kayla <kayla.gray@gmail.com> or Kevin <kburke@gmu.edu> with your availability.
2. THIS Friday, Nov. 14th @ 1:00pm - JC Lower Level outside of Dewberry Hall -- Join us as we prepare for HHAW!  We are looking for volunteers to help cut and assemble materials for our Action Board, we will also blow up balloons and make decorations for headquarters and weather permitting send people out chalking!  All you have to do is bring a friend and show up!  See you there!

CHRISTMAS PARTY: On Friday, December 5th, we'll gather on campus to watch Christmas movies, hang out, and have a white elephant gift exchange.  More details coming soon!

LUTHERAN STUDENT MOVEMENT NATIONAL GATHERING:  Spend December 31st - January 4th at the Downtown Westin in Chicago at this gathering open to all college students across the country.  Be "Transformed to Reach Out!" while staying on "The Magnificent Mile".  Please talk to me ASAP if you are interested in going.

 

"ALTERNATIVE" SPRING BREAK TRIP: Spend your spring break helping families in the continuing disaster recovery efforts along the gulf coast.  No experience necessary, as we will learn how to do whatever is needed once there.  Please let us know if you are thinking of going.

 

TABLE TALK:  Joining our UCM friends for their weekly Table Talk every Thursday at 7pm at St. George's United Methodist Church (4910 Ox Rd, Fairfax -- just south of Braddock).  Free food and fellowship!  All are welcome. Email dmay@gmu.edu for more information.

==================== 

Oh God, sometimes we are lonely.  Sometimes we feel so caught up in the stress of things, that it feels overwhelming.  Help us to find meaning in community.  Help us to see your face in those around us.  Hold us together in Christ.  AMEN.

==================== 

There will be much more in the weeks ahead -- such as playing with Legos, meeting and feeding those living in shelters, Wii night in the JC, Habitat for Humanity builds, movie nights, Bible studies, discussions where we learn about other denominations and faiths, and much more!  Let us know what you are interested in.  

In general, ALL students, faculty, or staff at GMU or any other college in northern Virginia are invited and welcomed at our events. Being "Lutheran" is never expected or required. All times, dates, and locations are subject to change. Check for updates at http://gmu.edu/org/lutheran or the "GMU Lutherans" Facebook group -- also, friend LCM here.

(11/6) *correction* and urgent announcements!

Hello friends!

Sorry for sending out a second message this week, but here are a few important announcement:

(1) We will playing games on Friday (11/14), *not* tomorrow.  We'll gather in Patriot's Lounge to play games and build things with Legos from 4pm-6pm on Friday (11/14).

(2) We really need a couple more volunteers to play games with kids on Monday (11/10) as we play games with kids to help NOVACO provide a life skills class for mothers who are homeless victims of domestic abuse by playing games with their children!  This is always a ton of fun!  Meet at 6pm outside SUB1 room 207 (the Campus Ministry Office) to carpool.  We'll return to campus by 8:30pm.  Join the Facebook event or email me to let me know.

(3) An announcement from the student planning team for HUNGER AND HOMELESS ACTION WEEK: 

Thank you for your interest in Hunger and Homelessness Action Week (Sunday, Nov. 16 - Saturday, Nov. 22).  We are currently in need of VOLUNTEERS to staff our headquarters on the JC North Plaza from 11:00 - 3:00 Monday through Friday.  We are looking for 4 - 5 students and staff to set up and take down, handout information, staff tables, the action tower and corn hole.  Are you able to help? Please REPLY or email kayla.gray@gmail.com with your availability.
*** Feel free to forward this email to friends!  Thank you for taking ACTION against hunger and homelessness! ***

Have a great weekend!

(11/5): 747, games/Legos, kids, LSM in DC, HHAW, Alternative Spring Break trip, and more!

A new U.S. President has just been elected -- and this campaign season has been a bit divisive.  How do we reconcile our differences?  Join us for 747 this Wednesday (11/5) at 7:47pm in the JC Bistro as we explore how our faith impacts our view of community.  I'm not sure if there will be food ahead of time this week, but there is usually at least something to munch on.  We explore different issues of faith together each week.  Check out the Facebook group! 

 

This Friday (11/7), we'll gather in Patriot's Lounge to play games and build things with Legos from 4:30pm-7pm.

Join us on Monday (11/10) as we play games with kids to help NOVACO provide a life skills class for mothers who are homeless victims of domestic abuse by playing games with their children!  This is always a ton of fun!  Meet at 6pm outside SUB1 room 207 (the Campus Ministry Office) to carpool.  We'll return to campus by 8:30pm.  Join the Facebook event

Interested in meeting students from other colleges to hang out and participate in service together?  Attend the Mid-Atlantic region of the Lutheran Student Movement for a social/service event in Washington, DC.  Crash at St. Paul's Lutheran on Friday (11/14) and spend Saturday (11/15) serving your neighbor and your Lord.  Let me know if you would like more information.

HUNGER AND HOMELESS ACTION WEEK is coming November 16-22!  Events will include homeless speakers from the National Coalition for the Homeless , a Braeded Chord concert, a SLEEP OUT on the North Plaza , food and clothing drives, a walk around the National Mall to help the homeless (join the "Lutheran Campus Ministry at GMU" team ),  and much more! Join the HHAW Facebook group to stay updated!

LUTHERAN STUDENT MOVEMENT NATIONAL GATHERING:  Spend December 31st - January 4th at the Downtown Westin in Chicago at this gathering open to all college students across the country.  Be "Transformed to Reach Out!" while staying on "The Magnificent Mile".  Please talk to me ASAP if you are interested in going.

 

"ALTERNATIVE" SPRING BREAK TRIP: Spend your spring break helping families in the continuing disaster recovery efforts along the gulf coast.  No experience necessary, as we will learn how to do whatever is needed once there.  Please let us know if you are thinking of going.

 

TABLE TALK:  Joining our UCM friends for their weekly Table Talk every Thursday at 7pm at St. George's United Methodist Church (4910 Ox Rd, Fairfax -- just south of Braddock).  Free food and fellowship!  All are welcome. Email dmay@gmu.edu for more information.

==================== 

Dear Lord, help us to unite with those around us -- to see what you love in each person.  We pray for those that govern, that they may find themselves bringing about your will on earth, as we seek to work toward those ends with our hands as you guide us.  In Jesus name we pray, AMEN.

==================== 

There will be much more in the weeks ahead -- such as playing with Legos, meeting and feeding those living in shelters, Wii night in the JC, Habitat for Humanity builds, movie nights, Bible studies, discussions where we learn about other denominations and faiths, and much more!  Let us know what you are interested in.  

In general, ALL students, faculty, or staff at GMU or any other college in northern Virginia are invited and welcomed at our events. Being "Lutheran" is never expected or required. All times, dates, and locations are subject to change. Check for updates at http://gmu.edu/org/lutheran or the "GMU Lutherans" Facebook group -- also, friend LCM here.

(10/28) 747, thrift shop, playing games with kids, HHAW, spring break, LSM, and more!

Last week at 747, we had a great time discussing peacemaking and we ended worship with a drum circle.  What will happen this week?  Come to SUB1 room B (3rd floor) this Wednesday (10/29) at 7:47pm to find out!  We explore different issues of faith together each week.  There will be FREE FOOD at 747 this week if you come a bit early, say around 7:15pm.  And yes, we are in SUB1 room B.

 

How much of your time do you spend *NOT* putting yourself first?  As a student recently pointed out, college basically forces you to be self-centric.  Your time is limited and you need to figure out how to get your homework done so that you can get good grades so that you can get a good job making yourself good money.  In the midst of this, you want to hang out with your friends and have yourself some fun!  These are generally good things, but wow, with all that pressure to focus on you, it can be really hard to remember that God calls us to serve others -- and actually doing something about it -- whoa!

 

Maybe you do really well at giving of yourself for others, but we all know it's not easy to follow Jesus all the time.  Hunger and Homelessness Action Week is coming up in November -- if you haven't found opportunities to focus your thoughts on the plight of others, it is the perfect time to educate yourself and motivate yourself to action on behalf of people who are poor and/or homeless.  Join the HHAW Facebook group and help spread the word about Hunger and Homelessness Action Week: http://groups.to/hhaw

 

God, we admit that sometimes it is easy to focus on ourselves, on our needs.  It seems necessary.  Yet help us to focus on you -- to center our lives in you and try to live as you call us to live.  Help us to see the others around us as your children, and to expand our circle of friends to those who might not appear to be like ourselves at first glance.  In Jesus name we pray.  AMEN.

 

====================
UPCOMING EVENTS:
====================
(In general, ALL students, faculty, or staff at GMU or any other college in northern Virginia are invited and welcomed at our events. Being "Lutheran" is never expected or required. All times, dates, and locations are subject to change. Check for updates at http://gmu.edu/org/lutheran or the "GMU Lutherans" Facebook group -- also, friend LCM here.) 

  

747 -- WEEKLY CREATIVE WORSHIP:  Wednesdays at 7:47pm in the SUB1 room B (third floor) this week -- you can find the complete room schedule at http://GMU747.org -- We welcome everyone and assert that every person has have valuable insights and talents to share, so feel free to bring your friends along.  We're hosting this in cooperation with United College Ministries (UCM).  Also check out the Facebook group.  

  

VOLUNTEER AT THE CLOCKTOWER THRIFT SHOP:  Meet at the Campus Ministry Office (SUB1 room 207) at 11:45am on Sunday, November 2nd to head over to help out at a thrift shop that helps to fund over 30 worthwhile programs of Northern Virginia Family Service. Its programs include homelessness prevention, job training, transitional housing, family counseling, Early Head Start, Special Foster Care, Health Access and more. NVFS helps people learn skills to become more self-sufficient and lead quality, productive lives.  More info can be found in the Facebook event -- we'll be heading to the Falls Church location.  The event will be updated if anything changes.

 

PLAYING GAMES WITH KIDS:  Help NOVACO provide a life skills class for mothers who are homeless victims of domestic abuse by playing games with their children!  This is always a ton of fun!  The next time we'll be going is Monday, Nov. 10th -- we'll meet at 6pm outside SUB1 room 207 (the Campus Ministry Office) to carpool.  We'll return to campus by 8:30pm.  Join the Facebook event.

 

HUNGER AND HOMELESSNESS ACTION WEEK:  Every year, the GMU Campus Ministry Association sponsors Hunger and Homelessness Action Week.  This year it is Nov. 16-22 --- and there is now a HHAW Facebook group: http://groups.to/hhaw !  Join the group to stay informed about HHAW events as the time draws nearer, such as the homeless speakers from the National Coalition for the Homeless, a Braeded Chord concert, a SLEEP OUT on the North Plaza, food drives, and more!  We're still recruiting student volunteers to help make this the best HHAW ever!  The primary job is for people to contact student orgs (we'll show you how) and get them involved in the following ways: (1) choose and event, promote it, and commit membership to participate; (2) sponsor a food drive drop-off location; (3) provide volunteers to staff HQ.  Let us know ASAP if you are interested.

 

LUTHERAN STUDENT MOVEMENT NATIONAL GATHERING:  Spend December 31st - January 4th at the Downtown Westin in Chicago at this gathering open to all college students across the country (you do not have to be Lutheran or attend a particular school).  These are a ton of fun and I highly recommend going.  The theme: "Transformed to Reach Out!" is about how we use our faith in the world, and it looks like they have a few great speakers lined up.  We'll be staying on "The Magnificent Mile" and will definitely have some free time to explore the Windy City.  Please talk to me ASAP if you are interested in going, so we can talk about registration, costs, and transportation.  I'm really looking forward to this event and hope that you can join me!

 

"ALTERNATIVE" SPRING BREAK TRIP: Spend your spring break helping families in the continuing disaster recovery efforts along the gulf coast.  No experience necessary, as we will learn how to do whatever is needed once there.  Please let us know if you are thinking of going.

 

TABLE TALK:  Joining our UCM friends for their weekly Table Talk every Thursday at 7pm at St. George's United Methodist Church (4910 Ox Rd, Fairfax -- just south of Braddock).  Free food and fellowship!  All are welcome. Email dmay@gmu.edu for more information.

 

There will be much more in the weeks ahead -- such as playing with Legos, meeting and feeding those living in shelters, Wii night in the JC, Habitat for Humanity builds, movie nights, Bible studies, discussions where we learn about other denominations and faiths, and much more!  Let us know what you are interested in.  

--
"Now there is no godlessness, no hatred, no sin which God has not carried, suffered, and atoned. Now there is no reality, no world that is not reconciled and in peace with God. God did this in the beloved son Jesus Christ."  ~ Dietrich Bonhoeffer

 

---
Lutheran Campus Ministry at George Mason University
Not just for Lutherans -- our events are open to the entire GMU community, as well as others attending other colleges in the region! For more information on our ministry, see http://gmu.edu/org/lutheran

--
"Now there is no godlessness, no hatred, no sin which God has not carried, suffered, and atoned. Now there is no reality, no world that is not reconciled and in peace with God. God did this in the beloved son Jesus Christ."  ~ Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Re: 747, thrift shop, playing games with kids, HHAW, spring break, LSM, and more!

Sorry that you are receiving this a second time.  I forgot to mention that there will be FREE FOOD at 747 this week if you come a bit early, say around 7:15pm.  And yes, we are in SUB1 room B.  I had conflicting info in the first version.  Ooops!

*****

Last week at 747, we had a great time discussing peacemaking and we ended worship with a drum circle.  What will happen this week?  Come to SUB1 room B (3rd floor) this Wednesday (10/29) at 7:47pm to find out!  We explore different issues of faith together each week.

 

How much of your time do you spend *NOT* putting yourself first?  As a student recently pointed out, college basically forces you to be self-centric.  Your time is limited and you need to figure out how to get your homework done so that you can get good grades so that you can get a good job making yourself good money.  In the midst of this, you want to hang out with your friends and have yourself some fun!  These are generally good things, but wow, with all that pressure to focus on you, it can be really hard to remember that God calls us to serve others -- and actually doing something about it -- whoa!

 

Maybe you do really well at giving of yourself for others, but we all know it's not easy to follow Jesus all the time.  Hunger and Homelessness Action Week is coming up in November -- if you haven't found opportunities to focus your thoughts on the plight of others, it is the perfect time to educate yourself and motivate yourself to action on behalf of people who are poor and/or homeless.  Join the HHAW Facebook group and help spread the word about Hunger and Homelessness Action Week: http://groups.to/hhaw

 

God, we admit that sometimes it is easy to focus on ourselves, on our needs.  It seems necessary.  Yet help us to focus on you -- to center our lives in you and try to live as you call us to live.  Help us to see the others around us as your children, and to expand our circle of friends to those who might not appear to be like ourselves at first glance.  In Jesus name we pray.  AMEN.

 

====================
UPCOMING EVENTS:
====================
(In general, ALL students, faculty, or staff at GMU or any other college in northern Virginia are invited and welcomed at our events. Being "Lutheran" is never expected or required. All times, dates, and locations are subject to change. Check for updates at http://gmu.edu/org/lutheran or the "GMU Lutherans" Facebook group -- also, friend LCM here.) 

  

747 -- WEEKLY CREATIVE WORSHIP:  Wednesdays at 7:47pm in the SUB1 room B (third floor) this week -- you can find the complete room schedule at http://GMU747.org -- We welcome everyone and assert that every person has have valuable insights and talents to share, so feel free to bring your friends along.  We're hosting this in cooperation with United College Ministries (UCM).  Also check out the Facebook group.  

  

VOLUNTEER AT THE CLOCKTOWER THRIFT SHOP:  Meet at the Campus Ministry Office (SUB1 room 207) at 11:45am on Sunday, November 2nd to head over to help out at a thrift shop that helps to fund over 30 worthwhile programs of Northern Virginia Family Service. Its programs include homelessness prevention, job training, transitional housing, family counseling, Early Head Start, Special Foster Care, Health Access and more. NVFS helps people learn skills to become more self-sufficient and lead quality, productive lives.  More info can be found in the Facebook event -- we'll be heading to the Falls Church location.  The event will be updated if anything changes.

 

PLAYING GAMES WITH KIDS:  Help NOVACO provide a life skills class for mothers who are homeless victims of domestic abuse by playing games with their children!  This is always a ton of fun!  The next time we'll be going is Monday, Nov. 10th -- we'll meet at 6pm outside SUB1 room 207 (the Campus Ministry Office) to carpool.  We'll return to campus by 8:30pm.  Join the Facebook event.

 

HUNGER AND HOMELESSNESS ACTION WEEK:  Every year, the GMU Campus Ministry Association sponsors Hunger and Homelessness Action Week.  This year it is Nov. 16-22 --- and there is now a HHAW Facebook group: http://groups.to/hhaw !  Join the group to stay informed about HHAW events as the time draws nearer, such as the homeless speakers from the National Coalition for the Homeless, a Braeded Chord concert, a SLEEP OUT on the North Plaza, food drives, and more!  We're still recruiting student volunteers to help make this the best HHAW ever!  The primary job is for people to contact student orgs (we'll show you how) and get them involved in the following ways: (1) choose and event, promote it, and commit membership to participate; (2) sponsor a food drive drop-off location; (3) provide volunteers to staff HQ.  Let us know ASAP if you are interested.

 

LUTHERAN STUDENT MOVEMENT NATIONAL GATHERING:  Spend December 31st - January 4th at the Downtown Westin in Chicago at this gathering open to all college students across the country (you do not have to be Lutheran or attend a particular school).  These are a ton of fun and I highly recommend going.  The theme: "Transformed to Reach Out!" is about how we use our faith in the world, and it looks like they have a few great speakers lined up.  We'll be staying on "The Magnificent Mile" and will definitely have some free time to explore the Windy City.  Please talk to me ASAP if you are interested in going, so we can talk about registration, costs, and transportation.  I'm really looking forward to this event and hope that you can join me!

 

"ALTERNATIVE" SPRING BREAK TRIP: Spend your spring break helping families in the continuing disaster recovery efforts along the gulf coast.  No experience necessary, as we will learn how to do whatever is needed once there.  Please let us know if you are thinking of going.

 

TABLE TALK:  Joining our UCM friends for their weekly Table Talk every Thursday at 7pm at St. George's United Methodist Church (4910 Ox Rd, Fairfax -- just south of Braddock).  Free food and fellowship!  All are welcome. Email dmay@gmu.edu for more information.

 

There will be much more in the weeks ahead -- such as playing with Legos, meeting and feeding those living in shelters, Wii night in the JC, Habitat for Humanity builds, movie nights, Bible studies, discussions where we learn about other denominations and faiths, and much more!  Let us know what you are interested in.  

--
"Now there is no godlessness, no hatred, no sin which God has not carried, suffered, and atoned. Now there is no reality, no world that is not reconciled and in peace with God. God did this in the beloved son Jesus Christ."  ~ Dietrich Bonhoeffer

 

---
Lutheran Campus Ministry at George Mason University
Not just for Lutherans -- our events are open to the entire GMU community, as well as others attending other colleges in the region! For more information on our ministry, see http://gmu.edu/org/lutheran

747, thrift shop, playing games with kids, HHAW, spring break, LSM, and more!

Last week at 747, we had a great time discussing peacemaking and we ended worship with a drum circle.  What will happen this week?  Come to SUB1 room B (3rd floor) this Wednesday (10/29) at 7:47pm to find out!  We explore different issues of faith together each week.

 

How much of your time do you spend *NOT* putting yourself first?  As a student recently pointed out, college basically forces you to be self-centric.  Your time is limited and you need to figure out how to get your homework done so that you can get good grades so that you can get a good job making yourself good money.  In the midst of this, you want to hang out with your friends and have yourself some fun!  These are generally good things, but wow, with all that pressure to focus on you, it can be really hard to remember that God calls us to serve others -- and actually doing something about it -- whoa!

 

Maybe you do really well at giving of yourself for others, but we all know it's not easy to follow Jesus all the time.  Hunger and Homelessness Action Week is coming up in November -- if you haven't found opportunities to focus your thoughts on the plight of others, it is the perfect time to educate yourself and motivate yourself to action on behalf of people who are poor and/or homeless.  Join the HHAW Facebook group and help spread the word about Hunger and Homelessness Action Week: http://groups.to/hhaw

 

God, we admit that sometimes it is easy to focus on ourselves, on our needs.  It seems necessary.  Yet help us to focus on you -- to center our lives in you and try to live as you call us to live.  Help us to see the others around us as your children, and to expand our circle of friends to those who might not appear to be like ourselves at first glance.  In Jesus name we pray.  AMEN.

 

====================
UPCOMING EVENTS:
====================
(In general, ALL students, faculty, or staff at GMU or any other college in northern Virginia are invited and welcomed at our events. Being "Lutheran" is never expected or required. All times, dates, and locations are subject to change. Check for updates at http://gmu.edu/org/lutheran or the "GMU Lutherans" Facebook group -- also, friend LCM here.) 

  

747 -- WEEKLY CREATIVE WORSHIP:  Wednesdays at 7:47pm in the JC BISTRO this week -- you can find the complete room schedule at http://GMU747.org -- We welcome everyone and assert that every person has have valuable insights and talents to share, so feel free to bring your friends along.  We're hosting this in cooperation with United College Ministries (UCM).  Also check out the Facebook group.  (Next week, we'll be talking about hunger and poverty related issues.)

  

VOLUNTEER AT THE CLOCKTOWER THRIFT SHOP:  Meet at the Campus Ministry Office (SUB1 room 207) at 11:45am on Sunday, November 2nd to head over to help out at a thrift shop that helps to fund over 30 worthwhile programs of Northern Virginia Family Service. Its programs include homelessness prevention, job training, transitional housing, family counseling, Early Head Start, Special Foster Care, Health Access and more. NVFS helps people learn skills to become more self-sufficient and lead quality, productive lives.  More info can be found in the Facebook event -- we'll be heading to the Falls Church location.  The event will be updated if anything changes.

 

PLAYING GAMES WITH KIDS:  Help NOVACO provide a life skills class for mothers who are homeless victims of domestic abuse by playing games with their children!  This is always a ton of fun!  The next time we'll be going is Monday, Nov. 10th -- we'll meet at 6pm outside SUB1 room 207 (the Campus Ministry Office) to carpool.  We'll return to campus by 8:30pm.  Join the Facebook event.

 

HUNGER AND HOMELESSNESS ACTION WEEK:  Every year, the GMU Campus Ministry Association sponsors Hunger and Homelessness Action Week.  This year it is Nov. 16-22 --- and there is now a HHAW Facebook group: http://groups.to/hhaw !  Join the group to stay informed about HHAW events as the time draws nearer, such as the homeless speakers from the National Coalition for the Homeless, a Braeded Chord concert, a SLEEP OUT on the North Plaza, food drives, and more!  We're still recruiting student volunteers to help make this the best HHAW ever!  The primary job is for people to contact student orgs (we'll show you how) and get them involved in the following ways: (1) choose and event, promote it, and commit membership to participate; (2) sponsor a food drive drop-off location; (3) provide volunteers to staff HQ.  Let us know ASAP if you are interested.

 

LUTHERAN STUDENT MOVEMENT NATIONAL GATHERING:  Spend December 31st - January 4th at the Downtown Westin in Chicago at this gathering open to all college students across the country (you do not have to be Lutheran or attend a particular school).  These are a ton of fun and I highly recommend going.  The theme: "Transformed to Reach Out!" is about how we use our faith in the world, and it looks like they have a few great speakers lined up.  We'll be staying on "The Magnificent Mile" and will definitely have some free time to explore the Windy City.  Please talk to me ASAP if you are interested in going, so we can talk about registration, costs, and transportation.  I'm really looking forward to this event and hope that you can join me!

 

"ALTERNATIVE" SPRING BREAK TRIP: Spend your spring break helping families in the continuing disaster recovery efforts along the gulf coast.  No experience necessary, as we will learn how to do whatever is needed once there.  Please let us know if you are thinking of going.

 

TABLE TALK:  Joining our UCM friends for their weekly Table Talk every Thursday at 7pm at St. George's United Methodist Church (4910 Ox Rd, Fairfax -- just south of Braddock).  Free food and fellowship!  All are welcome. Email dmay@gmu.edu for more information.

 

There will be much more in the weeks ahead -- such as playing with Legos, meeting and feeding those living in shelters, Wii night in the JC, Habitat for Humanity builds, movie nights, Bible studies, discussions where we learn about other denominations and faiths, and much more!  Let us know what you are interested in.  

--
"Now there is no godlessness, no hatred, no sin which God has not carried, suffered, and atoned. Now there is no reality, no world that is not reconciled and in peace with God. God did this in the beloved son Jesus Christ."  ~ Dietrich Bonhoeffer

 

(10/20) Painting with kids, peacemaking, pumpkin carving, and more!

I'm thinking today about community.  Lutheran Campus Ministry exists, in part, to help provide you with a community where you can ask questions, struggle with issues, find joy and laughter, meet people, learn about God, allow your creative passions to flow, find a shoulder to cry on, and where you can find (and create) opportunities to help the world around you.  How this looks each week varies...and we're always open to your input.

 

This week, our community comes together on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday:

+ In a few hours, we'll gather to help kids paint shirts as they get ready to do a mini-walk to help fight homelessness in our backyard.  Feel free to bring your own shirt to paint too!  

+ On Wednesday, we'll be talking about peacemaking at 747 -- and everyone will get an opportunity to play drums too!  How do these fit together?  Show up at the JC Bistro at 7:47pm on Wednesday to find out! 

+ Saturday, we'll be carving pumpkins for charity.  (Contact Rachael ASAP if you are interested, as volunteer waivers are due on Tuesday and I'm not sure how flexible they are.) 

*** More details on all of these things can be found below... ***

 

Lord, we want to know you more.  Help us to see your presence in the world around us, and in the faces of the people we meet.  Help us to be your hands and feet serving and sacrificing here in the world.  Your kingdom come, now and always.  AMEN.

 

====================
UPCOMING EVENTS:
====================
(In general, ALL students, faculty, or staff at GMU or any other college in northern Virginia are invited and welcomed at our events. Being "Lutheran" is never expected or required. All times, dates, and locations are subject to change. Check for updates at http://gmu.edu/org/lutheran or the "GMU Lutherans" Facebook group -- also, friend LCM here.) 

 

KIDS, T-SHIRTS, AND HOMELESSNESS:  On Monday, Oct. 20th, we'll gather at SUB1 room 207 at 6:00PM to depart to help kids paint T-shirts for a mini-walk to help the homeless.  Rides are provided and we'll return to campus around 8:30pm.  This is part of our ongoing partnership with NOVACO, an organization that helps homeless victims of domestic abuse become self-sufficient.

 

747 -- WEEKLY CREATIVE WORSHIP:  Wednesdays at 7:47pm in the JC BISTRO this week -- you can find the complete room schedule at http://GMU747.org -- We welcome everyone and assert that every person has have valuable insights and talents to share, so feel free to bring your friends along.  We're hosting this in cooperation with United College Ministries (UCM).  Also check out the Facebook group.  (Next week, we'll be talking about hunger and poverty related issues.)

 

CHARITY PUMPKIN FESTIVAL:  We'll be going out to Clarksburg, Maryland on Oct. 25 to carve pumpkins! The festival supports two charities- HomeAid (which provides shelter for temporarily homeless children and families) and Project Joy (which uses the healing power of play to help children who've been personally traumatized). It's sponsored by Life is Good.  See the Facebook event or contact Rachael for more information.  NOTE: Please try to get Rachael the volunteer release forms by Tuesday 10/21/2008.
 

VOLUNTEER AT THE CLOCKTOWER THRIFT SHOP:  We're still ironing out the details on this one, but it looks like we'll probably meet at the Campus Ministry Office (SUB1 room 207) at 11:45am on Sunday, November 2nd.  The thrift shop proceeds help to fund over 30 worthwhile programs of Northern Virginia Family Service. Its programs include homelessness prevention, job training, transitional housing, family counseling, Early Head Start, Special Foster Care, Health Access and more. NVFS helps people learn skills to become more self-sufficient and lead quality, productive lives.  More info can be found in the Facebook event.  The event will be updated if anything changes.

 

HUNGER AND HOMELESSNESS ACTION WEEK:  We're recruiting student volunteers to help make this the best HHAW ever!  First meeting is this Thursday at 9pm (if you can make it).  The primary job is for people to contact student orgs (we'll show you how) and get them involved in the following ways: (1) choose and event, promote it, and commit membership to participate; (2) sponsor a food drive drop-off location; (3) provide volunteers to staff HQ.  Let us know ASAP if you are interested.

 

LUTHERAN STUDENT MOVEMENT NATIONAL GATHERING:  Spend December 31st - January 4th at the Downtown Westin in Chicago at this gathering open to all college students across the country (you do not have to be Lutheran or attend a particular school).  These are a ton of fun and I highly recommend going.  The theme: "Transformed to Reach Out!" is about how we use our faith in the world, and it looks like they have a few great speakers lined up.  We'll be staying on "The Magnificent Mile" and will definitely have some free time to explore the Windy City.  Please talk to me ASAP if you are interested in going, so we can talk about registration, costs, and transportation.  I'm really looking forward to this event and hope that you can join me!

 

"ALTERNATIVE" SPRING BREAK TRIP: Spend your spring break helping families in the continuing disaster recovery efforts along the gulf coast.  No experience necessary, as we will learn how to do whatever is needed once there.  Please let us know if you are thinking of going.

 

TABLE TALK:  Joining our UCM friends for their weekly Table Talk every Thursday at 7pm at St. George's United Methodist Church (4910 Ox Rd, Fairfax -- just south of Braddock).  Free food and fellowship!  All are welcome. Email dmay@gmu.edu for more information.

 

There will be much more in the weeks ahead -- such as helping out at a thrift store, meeting and feeding those living in shelters, fixing up and painting a transitional shelter, Wii night in the JC, Habitat for Humanity builds, movie nights, Bible studies, discussions where we learn about other denominations and faiths, and much more!  Let us know what you are interested in.  

--
"Now there is no godlessness, no hatred, no sin which God has not carried, suffered, and atoned. Now there is no reality, no world that is not reconciled and in peace with God. God did this in the beloved son Jesus Christ."  ~ Dietrich Bonhoeffer