Weekly Rector's Note: Refugee Art Show and Labyrinth Events Coming Up

Dear Saints,

As we enjoy the second half of summer, and make plans for any additional things we want to do in this time, here are two events to put on the calendar:

On Wednesday, August 17, from 5pm to 7pm we have the honor of hosting “Uprooted: An Art Collection Inspired by Refugee Identity and Resilience” presented by Lutheran Community Services Northwest. The artists featured are all refugees who have resettled in the Pacific Northwest. One exhibit features a photo documentary that a woman took as she and her kids fled Afghanistan in the wake of the Taliban takeover. Another features the work of a man who was a famous artist and gallery owner in Mosul before he had to flee ISIS. The art alone is captivating, but hearing the artists’ stories makes it all the more profound.

This event will include a brief video where the artists get to discuss their lives and work, and several of the artists will be in attendance for further discussion. If you would like to help us with details around hosting and hospitality, please let me know.

Later that week, we will be once again hosting an evening Labyrinth Walk called “Finding Your Center." It will take place on the All Saints green on August 19th starting at 8pm. Walking the Labyrinth is a wonderful contemplative, prayerful opportunity. Getting to walk it outside as the sun is setting is especially beautiful. It will also be a time for connection and conversation over refreshments and music. Please invite friends and neighbors to both of these special opportunities.

This Sunday, as the temps kick up, we’ll be working to get the cool air in the Parish Hall and Nave by opening things up early and using high velocity fans. We did this last Sunday and it worked well. Our outreach teams will be working to connect people with Portland cooling shelters this coming week. If you would like to help pass out water on Saturday afternoon to our volunteers and guests (around 11am and 1pm), or can provide coolers with ice beforehand, please let me know.

In peace,

Andria+