From the Community Lay Director:

I have observed that, for me, the change of seasons is a much more impactful trigger for reflection, analysis, and decision making about the future than New Year's is. Just as summer can represent a peak of activity in daily life, the transition from summer to fall presents a peak of reflection, analysis, and decision making for me. This is partly related to garden type of activities. What grew well, what did not. A dozen okra plants were enough to keep me supplied with okra and have some left over to share with the garden produce swap shop at church. Let's go with four tomato plants next year instead of just three. Last year, black swallowtail caterpillars ate my parsley down to the nub. Planted extra parsley in a couple different places in the garden this year, hoping to welcome them back. Never saw a caterpillar. Did I pay enough attention to weeding and watering and just being present? Yes, no, and some of the time. I have not thinned my iris yet, nor have I planted the planned daffodil and tulip bulbs for spring blooming.

The 2026 Walk to Emmaus season came to a close a couple of weeks ago with Chrysalis Flight 41, Men's Walk 156, and Women's Walk 157 completed. Another trigger for reflection as preparations are already underway for Chrysalis Flight 42, Men's Walk 158, and Women's Walk 159 in 2027. Across those three events of 2026, we had barely more than two dozen pilgrims and caterpillars participating. I know the world has changed a lot in the past twenty years since my Walk 89. We used to have more people participate in one event than have participated in our last three events put together. I remember jumping at the offer to get away from my life for a long weekend -- to not have any responsibilities and to not have to make any decisions beyond do I wear the blue socks or the black socks? That opportunity seemed even better to me than going on vacation. On vacation, especially with family, responsibilities and decisions still abound. The spiritual aspects of the Walk weekend may well have been secondary to me in the time leading up to my Walk.

The Board of Directors cannot address low Walk and Flight participation numbers by itself. Nearly half of the Board of Directors members were part of the team for both Walks 156 and 157. It is hard to sponsor someone and also be a part of the team. Not all team members are finished with their Walk responsibilities when the Spiritual Director says the benediction at the conclusion of the Closing ceremony. The Board of Directors, and Christ, are counting on you, the Lexington Emmaus Community, to take the lead in sponsoring pilgrims and caterpillars. Let the Board know if we can help you in the sponsorship process. I would be happy to come to your church and share with a group about the Emmaus experience.

Please come to the November Gathering at Trinity Hill Church Lexington. I am hoping that all eight pilgrims and the team from Walk 157 will be there for you to meet and encourage.

DeColores!!

 Michael Watts

Community Lay Director

Lexington Emmaus Community

Mission Statement
Renewing Christian Disciples
Strengthening Local Churches

Welcome to the Lexington Emmaus Community!

Next Gathering

Date: Friday, November 6

We will meet at 6:00 for fellowship, potluck at 6:30 , and worship at 7:15.

place: Trinity Hill Methodist Church

3600 Tates Creek Rd, Lexington, ky