One of our faithful Elders in the church, Elder Herbert Rowland will be leading worship and preaching the sermon at both worship services tomorrow morning. Herbert grew up in this church and has served this congregation and our community in numerous capacities over the years. Following retirement from Camden County High School, Herbert was elected to the Camden County Board of Education where he currently serves as Chairman. This community of faith is grateful for his un-tiring dedication to all of his endeavors.
I attended a continuing education course a few years ago which was conducted by the Alban Institute. The course outlined the characteristics of vibrant churches that are successful in empowering the laity. Our leader reminded us that church growth specialists all agree that a “healthy” church is one that can carry on the Sunday to Sunday activities from beginning to end … all in the absence of the pastor or key leader. Your church happens to be one of those healthy churches! Thanks be to God!
Cathy and I are excited to be with our youth group this weekend. We are especially grateful for this large scale ecumenical opportunity with our sisters and brothers from two other denominations: The Episcopal Church and The Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. Ecumenism is a sign of strength and goodwill for Christians world-wide. Each time we acknowledge the commonalities of our shared faith, we become stronger and more credible witnesses to the peace, purity, and unity of the Body of Christ. I invite your prayers for the day when doctrinal differences become less important. And in their place is the love, grace, and mercy we share in Jesus Christ.
May God Bless You …
Pastor Rick
No comments:
Post a Comment