This column helps congregations and individuals plan for the church year's upcoming celebrations, seasons or commemorations. See previous columns...
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Come Reformation Sunday (Oct. 30), St. Stephen, Woodbury, N.J., will add a twist to what most Lutheran churches do that day — include "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God" in the hymn lineup and don red. St. Stephen, known for taking on musical challenges and honoring major and minor festivals, has declared it reunion time.
"We're planning to have a homecoming Sunday," said Lawrence DePasquale (contact via email), associate in ministry and parish musician. Former parishioners will be invited back for worship, lunch, and an afternoon brass quintet and organ recital featuring music from the 15th and 16th centuries.
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The parish has a history of inviting members back, but not regularly. "I guess the fall just seems like a good time, a good time to travel since there aren't weather concerns," DePasquale said. "It's a good time for Lutherans to let the gospel shine and to remember the Reformation and how much [Martin] Luther loved the church."
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