The basic components of a gathering are:
SINGING AND PRAYERS—we get to sing songs we have learned and learn others. And we get the honor and privilege of praying for others in need.
FOURTH DAY WITNESS—someone is asked to witness to God’s presence in his or her life and their walk with our risen Savior. This witness can come from an experience, a spiritual learning, a reflection on a part of their journey, or a challenge to live more fully in holiness and service. This is NOT a sermon, a teaching or an explaining of the scriptures. The Fourth-Day Talk does come from the heart and is a sharing of what God has done for the speaker and how they may have dived deeper into the divine. It should be thought-out and prepared ahead of time.
CLERGY RESPONSE—There can be a response from the evening Spiritual Director to pull together the various thoughts and to highlight a connection with the gospel. This is NOT a sermon, or even a prepared talk. It is a scriptural reflection on the general theme of the Fourth-Day witness for the purpose of deepening everyone’s understanding of the connection between their lives and the story of God in scripture. The response includes a transition into:HOLY COMMUNION- We gather together as the Body of Believers to share with and inspire each other, and to feast at the Lord’s Table
EAT–Gatherings can, and usually do, include food.
BUSINESS–They also include some kind of educational moments, Sponsorship reminders, announcements of upcoming Emmaus events, opportunities to sign up for prayer vigils are explained and offered: these are all educational moments. And always ask if there is anyone who wishes to join a group reunion, or if a group has an opening for another person. .
FUN-And we can remember that we can have fun and share our joy. Jesus went to weddings. He was not a wall flower at these events. He was fully human as well as divine, and humans can enjoy themselves and laugh. One of the signs of being a follower of Christ is our joy.
Visitors are always welcome, but Gatherings are intended to be a time of sharing and encouragement from and for the Community.
Our Next Gathering:
The Fall Gathering is officially set for Saturday, October 3rd!
Here are the key details for the event so far:
- Food: Great news—Andy Moore has generously offered to smoke two pork butts for pulled pork!
- Location: We have rented the shelter house at Northwest Annex Park:
- Address: Northwest Park Annex, 1576 Fry Rd, Greenwood, IN 46143 (located on Fry Road, closer to SR 135)
- Amenities: It’s a covered shelter equipped with an outdoor grill, nearby bathroom facilities, and a children’s playground.
Festivities will begin at 5:00 PM.
Please join us!