So much of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s work was built on the foundations of spiritual tenacity, dignity-seeking, and justice-making that his forebears engaged in and, this Sunday, we will take time to consider what it looks like to carry forward that legacy today. Together, we will reflect on the parable of the Good Samaritan while also hearing from our guest co-preacher, Jennifer Esteen, whose work as a nurse at SF General Hospital led her to organizing for greater resources that would support our unhoused population in San Francisco. Through her story, we will have the opportunity to honor Dr. King’s work – first through joining our neighbors with the SF Unity Coalition and Temple Emmanuel in their annual King Day march to Yerba Buena and in the days to come, through growing efforts for justice in the city. This is an opportunity to embrace the prophetic joy that is part of following Jesus; naming the challenges and pain-points of our world, while claiming God’s hope and celebrating God’s goodness in the midst of it all. Our guest musician (and an old friend of Pastor Emily!), Andrew Jones, will lead us in some of that prophetic joy through song and celebration. I hope you’ll come out–you won’t want to miss it!

Looking Back
During worship this past Sunday we lit candles and welcomed in the Epiphany light through song, prayer and word.  We invited everyone into an Epiphany and New Year practice of intention setting called Star Words.  A digital version was created so if you curious, we encourage you to trust the algorithm and find your word of intention for 2023 HERE! Also, you may have heard or noticed that we are now serving Grape Juice as the main Intinction element for Communion as a way for us to stand in solidarity with our friends and family in recovery and continue to create a welcoming and hospitable space for all. You can hear more about this update from Pastor Emily on our Instagram.

Looking Forward
On Sunday, January 22nd, we have an opportunity to press pause on our corporate worship and serve our neighbors and City for our first Service and Fellowship Sunday. We have created a choose-your-own-adventure style morning with three opportunities spread across the City for you to pick from; Mission with Pastor Emily, NOPA with Pastor Stephen and Outer Richmond with Pastor Jay. If you were planning to be OOT that Sunday or you attend City Church online; you can also help out by purchasing items from the list for the group who will be serving at our office. Visit the webpage we’ve created and sign up for the opportunity that works for you!