I take the notion that Ariel Dungca has been spreading about radical hospitality seriously. So when something is happening in our area, I want Epworth to be known as a church of hospitality. The film Honest Thief is being filmed outside our front doors as I write this. I offered to the film crew and actors to use our space as needed for bathrooms, a place to eat lunch, a space for warmth, etc. I would do the same for a student film or anything that was happening in our neighborhood. Continue to ask yourself: in what ways can Epworth be hospitable to the Worcester community?
I am excited to start Advent here at Epworth. This year we are using the story of the Nutcracker as a lens in which to understand Advent and the coming of Christ. Even if you have never seen the ballet live, I am sure that almost everyone is familiar with the story of Clara and the Nutcracker. While the ballet itself is nothing special, it introduces the masses to a beautiful art form. I like to use pop culture in a similar way to help illuminate Scripture and faith. This is our first series exploring the intersection of the Gospel and pop culture. If it is well-received we will do more series like this.
Pastor Ken Mantler