We are beginning the month of October and signs of Fall are all around us. We had a wonderful celebration for Bev and we will miss her. She will be able to travel, relax, visit friends and family, and look forward to her next adventure. I know she will enjoy her retirement.
As our Pastor and Teaching Elder, Bev taught us all who were called to participate in the ministry of our church.
Ruling Elders are chosen by the congregation to discern and measure its fidelity to the Word of God, and to strengthen and nurture its faith and life. Ruling Elders, together with teaching elders, exercise leadership, government, spiritual discernment and have responsibilities for the life of a congregation as well as the whole church, including ecumenical relationships.
The ministry of deacon as set forth in Scripture is one of compassion, witness, and service, sharing in the redeeming love of Jesus Christ for the poor, the hungry, the sick, the lost, the friendless, the oppressed, those burdened by unjust policies or structures, or anyone in distress.
The mission of our church is to bring people to Christ, witness Christ's love in our community, and equip our members to minister in the world with love and understanding for the glory of God. Our committees reflect our mission. The Worship & Music committee works closely with the minister to plan the best possible worship experience for the congregation. The Congregational Life Committee provides care, help and support to people in time of need and to provide opportunities to enjoy the fellowship of others. The Christian Education Committee provides the Sunday School program to nurture our youth and the adult bible study group which continues year round now. The Buildings & Grounds Committee continues the ongoing effort to maintain and preserve the integrity of the church property. The Mission Committee spreads God's love through mission giving locally, nationally, and world-wide. These, and more, are examples of our mission statement.
We are an active and vibrant congregation and will continue our ministry. Have faith and patience. We will go through the process of finding an interim minister first, and eventually, a full-time minister will be called. The Interim Pastor nominating committee is working hard and this month a Pastor Nominating Committee will be formed and approved by the congregation.
All elders, deacons, and members of all of our committees are active members and represent our congregation. We are a strong, vibrant, and active church and will continue to be such during this period of transition.
In Christ's Love,
Karen Rhodes, Clerk of Session
