Dear Lord, please give me a sign to help me write my weekly column that readers will find relative to this day. It is the first day of August, and people’s attention is focused on the Olympics in Paris. Plus, this month’s lectionary Gospel messages stress the life-giving staple of bread. What shall I say? I look to the heavens for your divine guidance.

There it is! In the early morning darkened sky, I see the waxing crescent moon! Thank you for the sign! Crescent…croissant! A baked French delicacy on August’s first day. That helps bring together the new month, Paris, and baked goods. I, therefore, introduce you to August Zang.

August Zang, born in 1807, was an Austrian entrepreneur who founded that nation’s leading newspaper. He is probably better known for his culinary baking skills, often credited with bringing a flaky crescent-shaped bread roll to Paris. He went to France in about 1837 and opened a bakery that featured an Austrian kipferl that became the French croissant. August’s bakery is also speculated to be the original source of the baguette, the stick-like bread that has become a symbol of French culture.

As we begin the month of August, let’s remember August Zang. You may chew upon a croissant or a baguette to help you appreciate the French cuisine as you tune in to the Paris Olympics. I also suggest you keep him in your breadbasket of thoughts as we ponder scripture this month.

Our outdoor worship service (weather permitting) this Sunday, August 4, at 9:30 AM will include familiar bread Bible stories, including Manna from Heaven and Jesus feeding 5,000. The following Sundays will feature lessons from St. John’s Bread of Life discourse. Join us and be fed.

Blessings,
Pastor Marc