Hi First Presbyterian Church,

It's time for our Mid-Week Meet-Up! The Intergenerational Worship Service last Sunday was a great success. It was really nice to see so many of you at both services interacting with the prayer stations! I’ve attached a few photos of the lit votive candle station as well as the Communion tablecloth on which you wrote the names of faithful people from your lives. Pastor Erin had to put a few extra tea lights on the votive table because so many of you wanted to “light” a prayer. I was happy to hear that you experienced the service as healing, encouraging, and inspiring. That was its intended purpose.

The “Do Not Be Afraid” mural that you colored pieces of during worship is already being assembled to be ready for Advent. I loved how the mural and the quilt squares helped to make the overall point of the service, which was: We are all part of the one body of Christ, and each of us brings a gift to God for God to use to increase someone else’s faith.

Today, the day after this year’s general election, I am reflecting on the importance of remembering Sunday’s message – that, in the church, we are one body. As you are awaiting the election results both locally and across the country, whatever the results may be, just remember: You have brothers and sisters in Christ within the church who voted for the “other candidate.” You are all part of God’s family, and your love of your brothers and sisters must transcend your political commitments. Whatever the election results may be, just remember: Christ alone is the head of the Church and the Lord of all creation. Nothing will ever change that. Even if the earth itself shook and crumbled, and the mountains fell into the sea – we would have nothing to fear because God alone is our refuge and strength (Psalm 46:1-2).

Throughout the rest of the week, instead of staying glued to the news to watch the results coming in, I encourage you to put your phones away and turn off the TV and, instead, reflect on how God has uniquely gifted you to help your brothers and sisters in the church. Try to think of one way you can show genuine Christian love to someone else in the church. God’s peace awaits you on the other side of love. 

Peace to you,

Pastor Aaron