two moments in church this morning
Posted: Sun Nov 16, 2008 5:32 pm
About 4-5 years ago, the oldest member of our church went to live in a nursing home. She's 92 years old and confined to a wheelchair. While she was with us, she regularly used to serve as worship leader (reading the opening prayer, the invitation to confession of sin, the assurance of forgiveness, and the first scripture lesson). Today, for the first time in over a year, she came to church. Not only that, but she served as worship leader, doing the readings in a strong and clear voice. (It turns out she's been doing this all along at the nursing home). Her granddaughter and great-grandson assisted. Then, she was presented with the deacon's annual Thanksgiving Award for service to the church. We gave her a standing ovation. God bless dear Ethel.
The following is not political in any way, shape, or form, even though it contains a reference to the recent election:
Before the scripture, the pastor spoke soberly about the recent bias murder of an Ecuadoran immigrant right here in our county by seven young men who were admittedly out to 'get' a Latino. The pastor also spoke about other incidents, such as the alleged uptick in online registration for white supremacist organizations immediately following the election of our new President. Pastor John reminded us that it wasn't enough just to be disgusted by such things in our hearts. When we hear the epithets or offensive jokes, we have a duty to speak out. I hope many pastors are saying similar things to their congregations.
The following is not political in any way, shape, or form, even though it contains a reference to the recent election:
Before the scripture, the pastor spoke soberly about the recent bias murder of an Ecuadoran immigrant right here in our county by seven young men who were admittedly out to 'get' a Latino. The pastor also spoke about other incidents, such as the alleged uptick in online registration for white supremacist organizations immediately following the election of our new President. Pastor John reminded us that it wasn't enough just to be disgusted by such things in our hearts. When we hear the epithets or offensive jokes, we have a duty to speak out. I hope many pastors are saying similar things to their congregations.