The LINK: 6/01
Friends and family of Congo-Pres,
Happy Summer! Whether you’re travelling, going on vacation, celebrating big milestones like a graduation, job change, or big move- on behalf of the church, our prayers go with you, that God bless your comings and your goings!
I will both be going away for a bit, and mostly staying in place. I write this on my last week in the office before I go on parental leave to take care of our baby as Julia goes back to work.
While getting ready for this, I want to encourage you to remember what you already know: I am not the church. While the pastor leads, and has special
functions, I and you, and all of us, are the church, the body of Christ made up of many diverse parts. So as your pastor, who’s leaving for seven weeks (a good
biblical number!), here are some suggestions while I’m gone:
-Keep praying. Do you have a prayer or spiritual practice? What rhythms do you follow throughout your day, week, or month?
-Consider volunteering for worship. Beth will be looking for different voices to lead different parts of the liturgy, like the prayers.
-Read along with me? I’m reading Jack Levison’s “Seven Secrets to the Spir-it-Filled Life”. It’s a great devotional to help us keep focusing on the Spirit and God’s movement in our lives.
-Keep making new connections. Try taking new people out for coffee or lunch. I referenced this in my sermon last Sunday, but every time that a coffee or lunch happens between new people whether between individuals, couples or families, many new connections could begin. Those accumulate!
-Consider trying out a new bible study or group. We have plenty! Take a look at the calendar and maybe there’s one for you.
-If you’re able and got time, volunteer in a new way or place, and report back to us and see if there’s ways for CPC to get involved.
-Take time to rest. Sabbath is meant for humanity, not the other way around. In what ways do your body, mind, or even soul need to be refreshed so we can live more fully with God?
There’s going to be an intern, some opportunities to take part in summer children’s ministry, and a lot of the typical things. You’re going to be in good hands as our staff is here, the members and elders and trustees are still here, and ultimately you’re in the palm of God’s hand.
Grace and peace. See you in July!
Pastor Adam