Sisters and Brothers in Christ it has been a full week at St. Paul’s!
We hope that you had an opportunity on Monday to spend some time with your family and remember the blessings of family both biological and the family we choose, like our church family. Our bible says it is “not good for man to be alone” the blessing of family, in whatever form it takes is an amazing blessing God offers us.
This Tuesday and Thursday, we hosted two stewardship events with Roger Janes the United Churches Atlantic Stewardship and Gifts officer. He talked with us about why people give and some of the things that we do around stewardship that help and hurt churches. One of the things that often happens is that Stewardship is thought of only as fundraising….the reality is, it is so much more. Stewardship is everything we do after we say “Yes” to God. We have the opportunity to practice stewardship in so many areas of our life….the past three weeks the bulletin inserts have spoken to how we use time, talent and treasure. As we work to educate ourselves about the important topic. Thanks to everyone who came out and took a step to grow their faith and this important spiritual practice.
This Sunday we have our second ‘Bring A Friend Sunday’ with a potluck following the service. This is a great opportunity to say “hi _________ , this Sunday, along with our regular service there will be a potluck lunch. (this would be a good place to say something that you like about our church service or community). I think you might enjoy the day, would you be interested in coming as my guest?” It is really that simple. If they say yes, either arrange to meet them or pick them up, sometimes coming into a church building can be scary. If they say no, stay positive maybe even open the doors “maybe you will be free next time.” The number one reason why churches grow, is because members share what they find meaningful and then invite others to check it out!
This Sunday along with being Bring a Friend Sunday, is also Scouting Sunday and we will be joined by the Beavers and Cubs who meet in our building. They will be helping with the service and sharing their promises with us. They will also be sharing Cake at our potluck. It is sure to be a great day. If you have been reading ahead this week we will be hearing John 13:1-17 where Jesus washes his disciples feet as both a sign of His love and as an example of humble service.
Speaking of service, next week we have an opportunity to give as it is pantry Sunday. Our church in the last year has served close to 100 families and each week new people come seeking aid. A list of the most needed items will be in the bulletin this Sunday. If you are able, your support of this vital ministry is always appreciated.
Worship will be happening at Frederick and Governor Halls on March 1st at 10:30, if you live in Shannex or would like to join/help out at the service you are always welcome.
Just a reminder, the system for finding out if people are in the hospital is still not functioning well so we need your help. First if you know of someone who is in the hospital, please let us know through the office. Second if you happen to be in the hospital, make sure that you say you want a visit from Spiritual Care when you register or ensure you tell your unit nurses that you want to be on the spiritual care visitation list – this way you will be added to our list.
Holy God, you came down to be with us, to show us what it means to live and love God with all our hearts and minds. You walked the way of truth and justice. Caring for the last and least, you called us to follow your example. Help us loving God, to serve as you served, offering ourselves to this world humbly with an open heart. This we pray through the one who showed us the way. Amen
Blessings on your weekend and we look forward this Sunday
Rev. Michelle and Rev. Richard
Also this week’s bulletin is available for download here.