September marks a “New Year” in most churches, as we come back from summer activities and travels. Following Labor Day we will resume our schedule of two worship services (but not till September 16th!), the choir will be back in the chancel, Sunday School will be ready to greet learners of all ages, and the building will buzz seven days a week with activity. I will particularly enjoy the beginning of the new year for our Early Learning Center – weekdays have been much too quiet without the sounds of children talking, giggling, singing, and learning.
Our Session will continue the conversation we began in June about where we believe God is calling us in the years ahead. Our priorities have changed over the past decade since the first thoughts that led to the Vision 2010 program were discussed. We now realize that rather than adding space, we need to put more effort into maintaining and enhancing what we have. Our 30-year-old building needs to look as bright, warm, and welcoming as all the new church buildings that have sprung up all around us over the past few years.
Our Reformed heritage reminds us that we are the “Church Reformed, Yet Always Reforming”. As important as tradition is, change is also an equal partner in our discipleship. The Holy Spirit calls us to changes and leads us, gracing us with the wisdom and courage we need to walk forward boldly and faithfully. Changes come in small ways: fresh paint all around our building, including splashes of welcome color; more graphics, pictures, and helpful information on our website; or new volunteer leaders for our Youth Groups. And changes come in bigger ways as we think about new ministries and missions, or plan for how we can restore the position of Associate Pastor.
One of many changes we made this summer was to update our computer database to help us capture information from Time & Talent surveys that our Stewardship Ministry Team has put together. Our Deacons will be sending you the Time & Talent form for you to fill out and return – right away, please! Our database is vastly improved thanks to the efforts of Ann Curtis and Sarah Slader, so be assured that we will match interests and needs.
Where will God be calling us in the weeks and months ahead? Where will God be calling you to serve in the weeks and months ahead? We have only to “be still” and listen – God will make our paths clear. And as Paul teaches us, whatever we do in word and deed, whatever the path, let us be sure to do everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Grace & peace,
Pastor Skip
