Chapel Chimes—June 2024

ChapelJuneChimes 2024

Becoming the Light

By Rev. Rhonda Blevins

It’s summertime here on the Sun Coast! That means fewer cars on the road and fewer folks in our pews—it also means more hours of sunlight every day until Summer Solstice on June 20. I love the longer days and what it means: more time to get in a walk after work before it turns dark, the chance for the plumeria to put on their displays of grandeur, and the pool finally being warm enough to enjoy. These are tangible reminders of the gift of sunlight and the many gifts it bestows upon us.

In the same way, as people of faith, Jesus calls us to be the “light of the world.” Here’s what he told his listeners one day in Matthew 5:14-16: You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

This past Sunday, as we studied our core commitment of “growth,” I invited you to let the Spirit of God nudge you to strengthen a spiritual practice, to “clear the field” so that the seeds of God’s Word might grow more freely in you. I hope you have been doing that good work, because the fact of the matter, the world needs more of Christ’s light shining! Keep on being the light of the world, Chapel!

At the Chapel, we take seriously our call to be a “beacon of God’s love.” We do this in so many

Renovation update: we are awaiting revised plans from our architect to resubmit to the City of Clearwater for permitting. We are awaiting bids from a couple of very qualified General Contractors (this takes some time as they must receive bids from the various subcontractors). Our organ builder is finishing up his work on our organ—the part he can complete until he can install it in our sanctuary. Our stained glass windows will be removed on June 4 so that they can be refurbished and brought back along with three brand new windows that will complement the series, which will bring stunning color and light to the west wall of our sanctuary. Though not as quickly as we’d like, things are happening! Love and Light, Rev Blev

Baptism in the Sea

Bible Study

Bible Study: Every Tuesday & Thursday

Minister of Education, Joe Creegan, offers two ways to study the Bible and explore faith: the hybrid Tuesday Forum eats together at 6:15pm followed by class at 7pm (Zoom Meeting ID 895 0402 7068; Pass code: 417209) AND Thursdays in-person at 11am in Classroom 1. All are welcome to these small group studies!

Adult Sunday School

Join us on Sundays at 9am as we explore “The Science of Near Death Experiences.” Taught by Minister of Education, Joe Creegan.

Fermenting the Faith, Second Thursdays

JUNE 13, 7PM: This month at Anecdote Brewery! Join us on the second Thursday of each month for some deep conversation around faith and theology. Nate Ryan, facilitator. All are welcome! Contact Nate Ryan with any questions at ndryan1138@ gmail.com.

Chapel Chicks Luncheon

JUNE 11, 12PM. June’s luncheon will be held at Wildflower Cafe in Clearwater. Each chick will pay for her own meal. Sign up in Friendship Foyer or online at https://www.chapelbythesea.net/ chapelchicks

Men’s Breakfast, Second Tuesdays

SECOND TUESDAYS @ 9AM. Meet with the Champs to enjoy a hearty breakfast, fellowship, and Christian discussion. Leave with a full belly and soul. $10 suggested donation. Did you know? You can purchase a Chapel Champs shirt on our website! Visit chapelbythesea.net/chapel-store to order yours today!

New Directory!

You heard that right! It has been years since a new directory has been published, and we need you! Universal Church directories has been enlisted to photograph and create our new directory. Photo dates are July 22nd and 23rd, and for our snowbirds, November 1st and 2nd. Please plan to participate to create our historical record of members. Sign up in Friendship foyer. Volunteers needed. See Dan Brafford with any questions.

Alcoholics Anonymous

Hot Dog Fellowship

The 75th Anniversary Committee is sponsoring a fund-raising hot dog lunch on Sunday, June 30th right after worship. More details coming soon!

Did you know we host several weekly meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous? AA meets Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at 6pm. If you or someone you know needs the support these groups offer, you will find a warm welcome in classroom 2.