August 2017
Summer is a time when we are very aware of the newness and beauty of each day.
This summer has also been a time when I’ve seen and celebrated a new spirit in so many places, a spirit of collaboration and cooperation and service in the name of God. It was apparent at this year’s National Association of Congregational Christian Churches’ Annual Meeting and Conference in Demorest, GA in June; see Dottie Kendall’s report in this issue. The mission project that she highlights was a powerful reminder that faithful people working together can do remarkable things; you’ll hear more about that on Rally Sunday, September 10th. The spirit of collaboration and service is also apparent as we prepare to welcome the guests who come to us through South Oakland Shelter, August 20- 27.
As we seek to live out our newly-adopted vision, I see tremendous possibilities for us to BE the church: a redemptive presence proclaiming the good news of God’s love and faithfulness through the ways we worship and serve. In contrast to the contentiousness of our times, we can stand as an example of people who can work together not just despite, but because of our differences, and make a genuine difference in our lives and in our world.
Take a look at the opportunities in this newsletter, and plan to join us as a volunteer during SOS week, and as a representative of our congregation at the Open House which will follow worship on Rally Sunday. And remember to enjoy the freshness and newness of each day, a gift from God!
Rev. Mary E. Biedron
Summer is a time when we are very aware of the newness and beauty of each day.
This summer has also been a time when I’ve seen and celebrated a new spirit in so many places, a spirit of collaboration and cooperation and service in the name of God. It was apparent at this year’s National Association of Congregational Christian Churches’ Annual Meeting and Conference in Demorest, GA in June; see Dottie Kendall’s report in this issue. The mission project that she highlights was a powerful reminder that faithful people working together can do remarkable things; you’ll hear more about that on Rally Sunday, September 10th. The spirit of collaboration and service is also apparent as we prepare to welcome the guests who come to us through South Oakland Shelter, August 20- 27.
As we seek to live out our newly-adopted vision, I see tremendous possibilities for us to BE the church: a redemptive presence proclaiming the good news of God’s love and faithfulness through the ways we worship and serve. In contrast to the contentiousness of our times, we can stand as an example of people who can work together not just despite, but because of our differences, and make a genuine difference in our lives and in our world.
Take a look at the opportunities in this newsletter, and plan to join us as a volunteer during SOS week, and as a representative of our congregation at the Open House which will follow worship on Rally Sunday. And remember to enjoy the freshness and newness of each day, a gift from God!
Rev. Mary E. Biedron
