BATH — A worship series, designed especially for the summer, will continue throughout this month. This Sunday’s onehour discussion-style service begins at 10: 30 a. m. and will focus on the power of creativity and play when incorporated in the Sabbath.

“Swedenborg points out that humans can plug into divinity when we align ourselves with the Lord and heaven,” said Pastor Alison Longstaff. “ The Sabbath was instituted as a reminder of these matters and was named for quietness and peace. It became the holiest symbol of the church, which is why the Lord called himself the Lord of the Sabbath. ( Luke 6:5)

“Contrary to the average perception, quietness and peace—or rest— isn’t ‘doing nothing.’ Resting is a thing in itself, with benefits vital to our souls and bodies. In yoga, the final pose is the resting pose, and it is one of the most important,” she added. “ The tendency in North America is to want to skip that pose. It is considered a throw-away pose by some — a waste of time. But rest is never a throwaway activity; it is vital. It is so vital that God built it into creation. The seventh day was and is for ‘ rest’ though we mortals have struggled and continue struggle to understand what that means.

Being in a sanctuary, whether inside a church building or in nature, provides a wonderful opportunity to recharge. We need these green spaces and recreation spaces, what you might call Temenos or sacred space. We need this ‘nature’ and ‘space’ for our souls to find rest. This Sunday we will explore how creativity and play are essential forms of rest that we often overlook.”

“For the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel has said, ‘You will be delivered by returning and resting; your strength will lie in quiet confidence.’” (Isaiah 30:15)

The Bath Church of the New Jerusalem (Swedenborgian) is located at Middle and Winter streets in Bath. For more information, call (207) 389-4080.