29-year old Lolo Jones will be competing for America this summer in the Olympics. She is a world-class hurdler, a positive role model, wealthy from endorsements and, by many conventional standards, an attractive human being. She is also a devout Christian who has stated that her faith has inspired her to abstain from sex. To read what Lolo's story has to say for us as Christians, please click the link below.

The mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace.  - Romans 8:6b

Am I still struggling to “cover all the bases,” to “keep all the plates spinning” by myself, as  though I am the center of the universe?  Have I yet reached the point that I can let go and let God guide and be the center of my life?

Prayer
Creator God, help me release control to you who formed my inmost being.  I so need your life and peace within me.  Amen.

The May 10th Vespers service has been cancelled 


Sunday, May 13th 
Mother’s Day Service at 11AM

Sunday school at 10AM in the Lorenz Library. 


Men's Fellowship at 10AM in the Adult Ed. Room (Next to pastor’s office). 

Looking Ahead
Vespers, May 17th 7:30PM in Adult Ed.

A special presentation by Batz’I Band, Sal Tzevul, from Chiapas, Mexico presented by NoMAA and HABANA/HARLEM. The event is part of “A Time for Healing” – a series of grass-roots forums and dialogues celebrating the NYC debut of Sak Tzevul.  The special event will take place on Thursday, May 17, 7-9pm at OSA with a $10 suggested donation. The event will showcase the unique musical message from Sak Tzevul and a conversation about spirituality and indigenous traditions in contemporary life facilitated by Dowoti Desir, cultural critic, activist and educator. For more information about the May 2012 “A Time for Healing” community programs, visit: www.habanaharlem.com or email:habanaharlem@gmail.com

Confirmation Class meets Saturday, May 19th at 10AM
  
Confirmation Sunday is May 27th followed by a BBQ 
Donations of side dishes welcomed! 

Vespers, June 7th at 7:30PM

Hello Everyone,

Barrie is continuing to make good progress.  Last night his speech was almost back to normal and he was able to lift his left arm, squeeze with his fingers, and move his left thumb.  His humor is certainly intact too!  If all continues in this positive direction, he is due to move today to the step-down unit and eventually to rehab.  He is very tired and still cannot have visitors, but we are all so thankful for your thoughts, prayers, and offers of support. 

Our daughter Steph had already arrived before Barrie was taken to hospital and our son Tim and his family arrived Wednesday evening (all planned long before as Tim is on his block leave).  Our daughter Keren and her family are hoping to arrive early next week.  Barrie will be resting in hospital while we have 2  two-year-olds and a four-month old getting to know each other!

One urgent need we have is for the loan of a car seat which is suitable for a four month old.  We do have the use of one for our 2 year old.  I am hoping to meet Keren and her family from Newark when they arrive.  (Please contact the office if you have one and would like to drop it off).

We love you, our OSA family,

Lois Ann

We are very honored to receive a special visit from Robert Rimbo, Bishop of the ELCA New York Metro Synod, this Sunday (May 6) at the 11AM worship. Bishop Rimbo will lead us in worship and give the sermon. 

Also this Sunday
Sunday school
10AM in the Lorenz Library.

Men's Fellowship
10AM in the Adult Ed. Room (Next to pastor’s office). 

Congregational Meeting
A special Congregational Meeting on immediately after service. The purpose of the meeting is to vote on the council-recommended capital campaign project. All are invited to attend; voting members are urged to attend. 

UPDATE: This Thursday’s Vespers service has been cancelled. 

COMING IN MAY & JUNE
May 27 at 11AM: Pentecost/Confirmation Sunday followed by BBQ

June 3 at 11AM: Jake’s Farewell Service

June 3 at 5PM: MOSA Concerts presents Ensemble ACJW in collaboration with the Carnegie Hall Neighborhood Concert Series  http://www.mosaconcerts.org/  

June 10 at 11AM: Pastor Barrie’s Farewell Service

June 10 at 4PM: Pastor Barrie’s Farewell Celebration and Godspeed

The Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before Him.  Habakkuk 2:20 

Be still and know that I am God.  Psalm 46:10

Stillness...silence...openness to see and hear...the promise of life after death, emergence of buds and new leaves, the laughter of flowers, the majesty of trees, the glory of the skies, the breath of nature around us, a comforting touch, the quiet presence of one who cares.

Prayer
Holy Lord, help me to take time... open my ears and eyes to know your Presence. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Last night Pastor Barrie suffered a T.I.A. I’ve been told he’s feeling much better and Lois Ann, his daughter Stephanie, and Jacob are with him as I type. Prayers requested and welcomed. I will do my best to keep everyone up to date as I receive information. For now, he’s being held for observation (might want to throw in a few prayers for his nurses) at Columbia Presbyterian.

We request that any inquires are directed to the office.
Many thanks,
Marisol Fernandez

If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given him.  James 1:5

Wisdom - if we are open - is an outgrowth of experience in prayer... study... relationships... work...rest... failures...and persevering nonetheless.

Prayer

Dear Lord, I pray for wisdom and trust You to help me.  Amen.