What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus Christ?  What does it mean to be a member of the church of Jesus Christ? I believe that we are entering a season that each person needs to reflect upon these questions as we move back towards a more normal church life with worship, Christian education and mission returning to pre-pandemic routines.  It has been wonderful to have virtual or hybrid options, but I believe each of us needs to prayerfully consider our commitment to Christ and Christ’s church in light of the new normal. 

Our Book of Order reminds us that: “Membership in the Church of Jesus Christ is a joy and a privilege. It is also a commitment to participate in Christ’s mission. A faithful member bears witness to God’s love and grace and promises to be involved responsibly in the ministry of Christ’s Church.”  Such involvement includes:

  • proclaiming the good news in word and deed,
  • taking part in the common life and worship of a congregation,
  • lifting one another up in prayer, mutual concern, and active support,
  • studying Scripture and the issues of Christian faith and life,
  • supporting the ministry of the church through the giving of money, time, and talents,
  • demonstrating a new quality of life within and through the church,
  • responding to God’s activity in the world through service to others,
  • living responsibly in the personal, family, vocational, political, cultural, and social relationships of life,
  • working in the world for peace, justice, freedom, and human fulfillment,
  • participating in the governing responsibilities of the church, and
  • reviewing and evaluating regularly the integrity of one’s membership, and considering ways in which one’s participation in the worship and service of the church may be increased and made more meaningful.

I hope that you will prayerfully consider how you might promise to be involved responsibly in the ministry of Christ’s Church by being fully engaged in this congregation by sharing your treasures, talents and time.  I look forward to seeing you during Holy Week Services!!!

In Christ,
Phil