It's been another wet Monday, but at the moment I'm writing this we're having a break in the rain. It sure is a good metaphor for life, isn't it? And goes right along with what we studied in the book of James last week. Life is a mixture of both hard and easy, good and bad, wet and dry. We will face various trials, and we get to choose how to respond to them. Our study in Mercy Triumphs last week was a very challenging one, and you won't want to miss out on what we'll be diving into this week. 

Both our women's Bible studies meet at the church each week. Common Grounds (Wednesday night from 6:30 to 8) and The Perk (Thursday morning from 9:30 to 11.) This week we'll probably cover verses 5-12 of James chapter 1. You may want to read those over before you come, just so you'll be familiar with the content. And don't forget the challenge we've got going on--memorizing the entire book of James. Sounds daunting, doesn't it?! But it's definitely possible. I know one lady who is already working on chapter 3, and I've begun chapter 2. Many others are making good progress. And remember, anything you memorize puts you that much farther ahead than before you started! This week Hollie is bring snacks for Common Grounds, Carol G. signed up for The Perk snacks, and Stephanie is the MIC for Thursday.

By now you've probably seen this graphic around church or on Facebook. Consider this your personal invitation to attend this pertinent event presented by Women's Ministry for our community. Hope Floats ... Rising Above Depression will take an honest look at some of the causes of depression and how to deal with them. It's an issue many of us have faced in the past, or are dealing with now, and there's help available. This FREE seminar will be led by Dr. Kristie Knows-His-Gun, from George Fox, and is on Saturday, October 19th, from 10-3.  Kristie will share with us in the morning, and we'll enjoy a FREE comfort-food lunch before continuing to receive practical help in the afternoon. This event is for women (or teen girls) only, and child care is not provided. All we ask is that you let me know you'll be coming (by Sunday, Oct. 13th) so we can be sure to have enough tables set up and food on hand. Please invite your friends to this practical time we can share together. Go to my Facebook page and share the posting about it too.

I shared a couple of answers to prayer with you last week, but today Stephanie asked me to share a prayer need. She writes: A close friend of my family is in the hospital in a lot of pain and an unexplainable inability to walk.  He has a junior in high school at home and three other adult children.  I am asking for  prayer for hopeful attitudes, healing, answers, comfort and understanding as we wait for the MRI results.

Until next week,

Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com     971-285-6699