List of “Prouds”
Wild Church
VBS
Spending time with family
Welcome and Affirming
Generosity for missions local and world
Facility Open for Community Use
Open and Affirming (justice, community involvement)
Relevant/Current Sermons by Pastor
Children’s Area and inclusion of the age continuum
Giving Community
All inclusive
Message through Sermon, music, Bible/Book Studies
Emphasizes COMPASSION
Community Focus
Open and Friendly People!
The list above was compiled by those who worshiped and gathered for the church potluck in February. We broke into several groups to lift up the parts of our shared ministry we are most proud of. As you read the list, perhaps after each point, you can hear God saying, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” This exercise was the first of two, drawing upon our collective wisdom to develop a new mission and vision statement that fits who we are now, that will guide us to the Church God is calling
us to be. Every Church is uniquely called because every Church is blessed with people of differing gifts and with a unique relationship with God. Grace is a much different church than it was 10 years ago, 5 years ago, even last year. As groups talked about what they were most proud of, there was excitement about how these areas are needed in today’s world, and about how God may grow or mature them into something we cannot yet perceive.
As we enter the season of Easter, tulips, daffodils, and the Easter story remind us of the patterns of death and resurrection. When one thing ends, another begins. When we let go of what isn’t working, and we trust the death, God opens doors for new possibilities for life.
Our hope is that, with our new constitution and a fresh mission and vision statement, we will have both a ship and a compass to discern new possibilities for years to come. As you can see from the list above, we know the direction God will continue to draw us towards, and it is inclusive, relevant, generous, and compassionate. Keep the Church in your prayers, and all those that form the body of Christ.
Easter Blessings,
Rev. Keith McDevitt
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