What a Difference a Year Can Make

They say that time flies when you are having fun. It’s shocking to realize that this month is the one year anniversary of our big move to the corner of Washington and St. James.  This has been a busy year. Renovations were made to the administrative wing and multi-purpose area, joint ministries were developed between our congregation and West End Baptist, and cherished traditions were continued.  It was hard work, but looking at all that we have accomplished, it is clear that God has been with us on this journey.

This past week church Elders and Deacons gathered together for our annual leadership retreat. We discussed the many successes of the past  year and how our congregation and ministry have become stronger in the midst of transition and change. Much of our discussion on Christian life and call connected to the words of our opening call to worship, inspired by Hebrews 13: 1-8:

God calls us to service, rather than  honor.

God calls us to love the unknown,  rather than the familiar.

We come to this time of worship,

trusting in the grace of Jesus Christ,

who is the same yesterday, today,  and forever.

Throughout our retreat, members compared this transition to the struggles of journeying through the wilderness. It was quite a leap of faith! Yet we discussed how Jesus was tested in the wilderness at the beginning of his ministry and how Jesus often  went to the wilderness to be close to God.  We also talked about how God calls us to go out of our comfort zone and try new things. We are who we are today because of having courage to listen to God and being led by his Spirit. In honor of this special occasion we are planning an anniversary celebration and reception on September 21st following worship. 

September is also a time for fresh starts. As the seasons change, so does the life of the church.  This month's worship will focus on the theme of renewal and will include a sermon  focusing on  new beginnings. Each week we will consider ways to recharge as we transition from summer to fall:

How do we re: concile relationships  to make them healthy again? 

How can we re: imagine regret, let  go and look forward? 

What does it mean to re: frame  prayer? 

Finally, what does it take to re: think happiness? 

The same Spirit that guided us in our new beginning will continue to lead us in the coming year. It is amazing to see all the wonderful things that have happened over the last twelve months and I look forward to experiencing what God has in store for us next.

Rev. Julie Sterling