The beliefs and practices of Wiccans and pagans will be examined 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 17 at LIFETREE CAFE. The program — titled “The Witch Next Door: What’s the Appeal of Wicca and Paganism?” — features filmed interviews with self-identified pagans and a Wiccan who says she began exploring the religion as a teenager and still practices it today. Admission to the 60-minute event is free. Lifetree Café is located 540 SE Pioneer Way, Oak Harbor. Lifetree Café is a place where people gather for conversation about life and faith in a casual, comfortable setting. For questions, contact Chrissie at 360-679-3431 or office@gracebythesea.org
“An Introduction to Experiencing Icons,” a LENTEN-SEASON CONVERSATION with Rev. Mary E. Green, an Episcopal priest, author, icon artist and Whidbey Island resident is 9:30 a.m. to noon, Saturday Feb. 20 in the parish hall at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 555 S.E. Regatta Drive in Oak Harbor. Refreshments will be served. Icons, traditionally sacred images of Christ, saints or angels venerated for centuries in Eastern Orthodox churches, have seen a wave of interest in recent times from Christians of all denominations in the United States and elsewhere, who often use them in meditation, prayer and reflection. Rev. Green has created many icons herself and is the author of “Eyes to See: The Redemptive Purpose of Icons.” She calls icons a visual representation of sacred truths. They are not “realistic” images but rather are meant to convey the spiritual energy emanating from a depiction of holy people. Green will discuss her own journey in understanding icons. She will lead a group meditation and discussion of one icon, “The Descent from the Cross.” Participants will then do a personal meditation with another icon, followed by a group sharing of their thoughts and insights. She will also sign copies of her book for those wishing to purchase it.
COFFEE BREAK BIBLE STUDY began a new 8-week study on Feb. 11, taken from Jesus’ “Sermon on the Mount.” This 2,000-year-old message is still relevant today, as it deals with such varied topics as murder, adultery, peacemaking, ambition and righteousness. In this well-known sermon, Jesus’ words point to a new life that comes from a changed heart, not from following a set of rules. This study meets weekly at the Christian Reformed Church, 1411 Wieldraayer Road (off Swantown Road), on Thursday mornings from 10-11:15 a.m. Coffee Break is a non-denominational small group Bible study that is open to all women in the community. No previous Bible knowledge is needed. To receive study material, call Launa at 360-675-4706, or call the church office at 360-675-2881 for more information.
