Coming together. Gathering in. That is what Sunday morning’s worship service was all about. And it was a joyful beginning to the fall season. Rev. Love preached on Jesus’ parables of bringing the wandering and the lost into the fold. In doing so she shared wonderful personal stories of a family gathering and of a precious lost item being found. She also presided over communion with us for the first time, stressing the significance of this most important of gatherings.
There was also a gathering of voices that came together as a “pick-up” choir under the direction of Sonya Sutton. With only a brief rehearsal before the service, the group of eight singers performed brilliantly. It was indeed a joy to hear our choir again and I am pleased to report that there will be another such coming together this Sunday too. In addition, the Music Committee will preside over a coffee hour conversation on “What Next?” for music. The committee did an amazing job over the spring and summer with diverse performances, both vocal and instrumental. Now they want to hear from you about the future of the music program.
And there was quite a gathering for the return of the annual harvest lunch, hosted by the Fellowship Committee. So many of us came together in person to share in the abundant, bountiful feast. The Fellowship Committee is also considering “What’s Next?” for coffee hour. They will be sending out a survey soon to get your input. (Not that I’m biased or anything, but I hope many of you will be able to be active in hosting and participating in coffee hour as we gather together again after the many months of pandemic and being apart.)
Coming together at our church is not just for those of us in the congregation. We provide a gathering space for others as well, including the four AA groups that use our parlor. The newest group, for young adults, just celebrated their fifth anniversary and has grown from only a few to more than 50 members. Coming together for sharing, caring, and support. They appreciate the space we provide for them to gather.
Mary Jane Glass and Dorothy Mora are planning a living memorial to Dorothy’s mother, Georgie Dunham. If you would like to gather with them to plan, select, and plant, contact Mary Jane at casaglass123@yahoo.com.
Coming together. Gathering in. Simple gestures but deeply meaningful. Deeply joyful.
Until next time,
Bruce