Care & Contemplation - 4/1/2025

Faith communities are called to offer love, just like Jesus did. At St. Luke’s, we have ministries of care that offer support during times of physical, mental and spiritual need. We are seeking to be a place that brings wholeness to everyone we serve. We offer many support groups and one-on-one Christian care-giving.

Contact our Care Team about care needs at https://stlukesumc.com/needcare

This Month: Stations of the Cross: Encountering the Cosmic Christ This Lent

April 6th – April 18th

Location: Church Narthex

Open to all whenever the church building is open

Walking the Stations of the Cross is an ancient Christian practice, especially undertaken as a prayer discipline during the season of Lent. This year’s experience may feel a little different and may be new to you.

We invite you to explore this ancient Christian tradition of Christ as the very first idea of God, permeating the entire universe. If you have ever stood in awe under a starry sky, been lifted by the fragrance of a rose, or felt joy in the laughter of a child, you have experienced the permeating presence of Christ in all that is.

These stations are based on the ancient metaphors of scripture, offering us ways to understand the movement of God in this magnificent universe—from galaxies to grasshoppers, through joys and sorrows, in life and in death. Saint Luke’s artists and writers have prayerfully created visual images and reflections to accompany each scripture.

We invite you to walk the stations, entering into prayerful contemplation on the scripture, image, and reflection. Walk all the stations or just a few. Linger with the images. Look deeply. Listen closely. Let yourself be moved by the Spirit of God.

It is our hope that walking these Stations of the Cross will enlighten and deepen your understanding and encounter with the Presence of the Cosmic Christ.


Ministry Highlight: Stephen Ministry

Life’s challenges can often feel overwhelming—whether it’s navigating grief, facing health concerns, experiencing loneliness, or going through relationship struggles. In those moments, having someone to walk alongside you can make all the difference. That’s where St. Luke’s Stephen Ministry comes in.

Stephen Ministers provide one-on-one, compassionate care to anyone experiencing a difficult time. They offer a listening ear, emotional and spiritual support, and encouragement—all in a confidential, non-judgmental, and private setting tailored to your needs. Whether you’re dealing with the loss of a loved one, medical concerns, divorce, loneliness, or other life transitions, you don’t have to go through it alone. Requesting a Stephen Minister is simple, and there is no cost for this service.

If you feel called to support others, consider becoming a Stephen Minister. Stephen Ministers receive specialized training to provide Christian care to those in our congregation and community. Through this program, you will develop valuable skills in listening, compassion, prayer, and encouragement while building deep connections with fellow Stephen Ministers at St. Luke’s. You’ll also receive ongoing support and education through bi-monthly small group meetings.

Whether you’re seeking care or considering becoming a Stephen Minister, we invite you to learn more. Visit stlukesumc.com/stephenministry to request support or explore how you can join this impactful ministry. You don’t have to face life’s challenges alone—St. Luke’s Stephen Ministers are here to walk with you every step of the way.


Coming soon... Join Us for Nature Walks

Do you love spending time outdoors, connecting with nature, and enjoying peaceful moments with others? Our Nature Walks 2025 series offers a perfect opportunity to slow down, listen, see, and appreciate the beauty around us. These guided walks take place on the third Sunday of each month at 2 PM from May through October at various scenic locations, each offering a unique setting to explore and connect with both nature and fellow participants.

Our first walk will be on May 18 at Virginia Fairbanks Art and Nature Park, located at 1850 W 38th St. We will meet at the 38th Street parking area trailhead. On June 22 and September 21, we will explore Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve, meeting at the parking area picnic tables at 10410 Hague Rd. For our July 20 and October 19 walks, we will gather at Holliday Park, 6363 Spring Mill Rd., in front of the Nature Center. Our August 17 walk will take place at Eagle Creek Park, entering through the 71st Street entrance at 7100 N. Eagle Creek Parkway. We will meet at the main trailhead on the north side of the entrance road, behind the entrance gatehouse (please note that there is an entrance fee).

These walks are a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature, engage in mindful observation and relaxation, and enjoy the company of like-minded nature lovers. We welcome participants of all ages and encourage you to bring a friend or family member along. The walks will take place in all weather conditions except in cases of severe storm warnings.

Consider joining us for a “walk in the woods” and discovering something beautiful along the way. No registration is required—just show up and enjoy! We look forward to sharing these special moments in nature with you.

Sign up and learn more by clicking here.