Dear Friends in Christ,
Last Sunday, on Pentecost, I asked, “What would be a good birthday gift to give to the church?” Several responded, “More people!” And, a few more added, “Younger people and children!” Indeed, people, especially younger people and children, would be good gifts for the church!
But one person mentioned what I think would be an even better gift. She said, “People who share their faith outside the church!”
In an age when more and more people have never gone to church, it’s important, if not essential, we be more visible with, and more vocal about, our faith. This doesn’t mean we have to speak like fundamentalist Christians whose goal it is to convert people to their beliefs. But, it does mean we ought to be prepared to share with non-church goers why we do what we do and why we attend church.
We’ll be talking more about “being more visible” as our new Church Vitality Team begins its work with our coach and consultant, the Rev. Paul Nickerson. Bridget, Heather, Kaddy, and I will start our planning this summer with Paul, and we’ll be sharing our learnings and ideas with you – all with the aim that we might become better “gifts” for the 21st century church.
Blessings of God’s Spirit,
Pastor Ed