Church hosting 'sending party'
(Courtesy photo) The community is invited to a “sending party” for Andy and Shawna Kennaly on June 18.
In 1903, the ministry of First Presbyterian Church of Sandpoint began, and this witness continues today. The community is invited to be a part of something special.
This summer provides an exceptional opportunity as Pastor Andy Kennaly, his wife, Shawna, and the church are entering a three-month sabbatical experience. Receiving a grant from the Lilly Foundation’s National Clergy Renewal Program, July, August, and September are unique in the life of the church. This renewal opportunity explores Celtic and Franciscan spirituality, the reformed tradition, and has a main theme of “contemplative prayer through bee keeping.”
Pastor Andy (a bee keeper) and his wife, Shawna will explore Celtic wisdom through visiting monasteries, museums, and parks in Ireland, Scotland, and England. Many of the monasteries have long traditions of keeping bees for wax and honey. 2017 is the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation in western Europe, and in Germany, the Kennalys will visit “the Gates of Freedom” exhibit in Wittenberg, which celebrates history, but more importantly, looks to the future with hope.
In August, they will experience the beautiful country of Slovenia, taking a guided ApiTour, staying at farms that specialize in bee keeping through the A-Z Hive System used in Europe. The pastor hopes to bring ideas and techniques, such as using a bee house, back to the United States. In September, Franciscan spirituality will involve a motor home camping trip to Italy, visiting Assisi, the home of St. Francis, the patron saint of nature.
The congregation will also explore these themes, including guest preachers and special music. There is an amazing retreat open to the community Sept. 15-17 entitled, “The Celtic Way of Life: Ancient Wisdom for Experiencing God Today,” lead by Sr. Mary Lonergan. She will guide participants deeper into the wisdom of this Christian way of living.
As a wonderful start to the sabbatical, the congregation is hosting a sending party on Sunday, June 18. Worship begins at 9:30 a.m. and will include commissioning the pastor and church leaders from the renewal group for this special time. The party continues after worship in Fellowship Hall.
The public is invited to share in this endeavor.
Information: fpcsandpoint.org or 208-263-2047