Elgin church to host Healing of Nations Jan. 6

The community is invited to a service of music and prayer for the “Healing of the Nations” at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 6, at Christ the Lord Lutheran Church, 12N462 Tina Trail in Elgin.

Cosponsored by Elgin’s First Congregational and First Presbyterian churches, the service invites rededication to the greater cause of caring for the refugee and immigrant in our midst.

Just as Magi from other lands circumvented ruthless ruler Herod to seek the child Jesus, we have a choice between death and new life. Too often imperial rulers promote violence — destruction of people and our planet. God’s way accompanies the marginalized, a path toward peace. It is a daily choice for people in community, helping each other to be faithful, both for those in our neighborhoods and those seeking refuge.

For many, Jan. 6 has taken on a negative tone since the 2021 political insurrection. In Christianity Jan. 6 has long been a day to celebrate the revelation, or Epiphany, of Jesus Christ. Epiphany is a season of light and hope. That is what we offer as a community coming together in prayer for all nations and peoples.

Following the story of presenting Jesus and his family with gifts, they also will share financial gifts in support of First Presbyterian’s El Centro Closet and First Congregational’s Asylum Fund on this day of Epiphany.

Christ the Lord Lutheran Church is a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The church is handicapped-accessible and welcomes those of every color and culture, sexual orientation and gender identity, socioeconomic status, marital status, ability, and challenge. Please come together as a community of faith and prayer this Epiphany, on Monday, Jan. 6.

Learn more at www.ctlelgin.org.