During our current series "ALL HANDS ON DECK!" we are talking about the four "ships" which contribute to a church's effectiveness in ministry. This week we will be thinking about the power of Christian FELLOWSHIP. There is no such thing as a "solitary" or "isolated" Christian life. Search the scriptures and you will never find Jesus inviting anyone into a "personal or private" relationship with him. The invitation was always into the "kingdom of God", the community of believers. Fellowship is not merely Christians coming together to catch up on the latest happenings in their lives, it is Christians sharing life, faith, joys, sorrows, hopes all in the context of our common love for Christ.
One of the most important things we can do right now in our ministry is to support and provide opportunities for meaningful FELLOWSHIP within our church family. The response to last week's Covered-Dish Dinner let us know that such experiences are things you want to see happen more often. We agree and will be planning such events moving forward.
The importance of being together was one of the primary reasons behind our decision to move to One Worship Service beginning Oct. 7th. The service will begin at 10:45. Sunday School and Small Groups will still meet at 9:30. An idea has been tossed around to offer breakfast each Sunday from 9:00 to 10:30 if there is sufficient interest and if someone feels led to take on that ministry. Are you interested in either? Let us know!
There are lots of things I love about Sugarloaf, but at the top of the list is the fellowship I find with some of the most wonderful people in the world. I look forward to sharing with you about the importance of that FELLOWSHIP this Sunday!
Stuart
