Beginning in September, Bethany will participate in “A Season of Preparation,” a “special period dedicated to getting ready for something significant, involving spiritual growth, skill-building, and gathering the many ways to prepare.” The Presbyterian General Assembly has identified areas of focus for the work of the church, including racial justice, gender justice, peacemaking, global witness, and ecumenical and interfaith relations. Each week, we will have a Minute for Preparation, a time when we will lift up the importance of the practice of communion and how it is a vital part of the congregation’s worshiping life. We will also be discussing how the greater church uses the World Communion Offering to support causes that address the needs of the world. There will be more information about this offering throughout the month of September.