During the confirmands “Statements of Faith”, every one of those young souls expressed how important it was in their life to worship in church each and every Sunday. Even when they would leave home for college their statements emphasized the importance of attending worship services every week, receiving the sacraments regularly! What a refreshing profession to hear from our youth, the same youth, in articles written about the declining worship numbers around the country, that tend to drift from the church. We all pray with, and for, these newly confirmed, that nothing will deter them from their desires to worship and serve our almighty Lord. They face a lot of pressures from the world to conform to the world. They will need our support to stay in the Word. (As I always say, the difference between the world and the Word is the letter “L”. Let’s get the “L” out of here!) Encourage them. Get them involved. Give them the keys to the church! I wonder if one of them wants to be Chairman next year. Do you remember making that proclamation at your confirmation?
As I watched the 3rd thru 8th grade program, “Elijah” the other night I could not help but think of our staff that has served the children, and us, unselfishly. And, by the way, it was an amazing performance by all. Elijah exhibited courage when he confronted the prophets of Baal, but he was not fearless. The Lord’s response revealed His deep compassion toward Elijah. He sent His angel to touch him and feed him. He spoke to Elijah in a whisper, reassuring him that his ministry would continue. I have been impressed and humbled by our school staff in their attitude toward finding a new ministry. They know that, just like Elijah, the Lord will guide them and their ministry will continue. Amen.
I sent a note to all via email about the needs for the numerous boards to be filled for next fiscal year. (Which begins August1) know from experience that being a member of a board, or group, will engage you in the congregation. Be a part of the activities of St Paul Church. Get involved. Prayerfully consider serving the church. Our mission is to proclaim the Word of God. The different boards of our church that have been established through the years are designed to help our congregation proclaim that Word. We point the world to the doors of the church to enter in and be taught the good news about Jesus. We want them to be drawn to His Table to eat and drink His body and blood. Won’t you be a part of that?
I have formed a Strategic Planning Committee to study the needs of our congregation as we move forward with mission and ministry. Troy Prehar will chair the committee. The committee will start meeting in June. We are working with Pastor Mike Newman, the District Mission and Ministry Facilitator for our area. He has already had meetings with the Council and spoke to the Voters Assembly April 30th. He has given us important demographic information about the area surrounding St Paul, and has enlightened us of other inner city congregation’s success with ministries. This is an important action to take as our congregation is transforming with a partnership with Upbring to administer the school. Keep this committee in your prayers, that they can be led by the Holy Spirit in all they do.
I sent a note to all via email about the needs for the numerous boards to be filled for next fiscal year (which begins August1). I know from experience that being a member of a board, or group, will engage you in the congregation. Be a part of the activities of St Paul Church. Get involved. Prayerfully consider serving the church. Our mission is to proclaim the Word of God. The different boards of our church that have been established through the years are designed to help our congregation proclaim that Word. We point the world to the doors of the church to enter in and be taught the good news about Jesus. We want them to be drawn to His Table to eat and drink His body and blood. Won’t you be a part of that?
Richard Covey
