Pastor’s Corner “Celebrating Pentecost as One Congregation”

Even though we’re still in the Easter season, I want to look toward Pentecost for a moment. Pentecost often is called “the birthday of the Church,” as on that day our Father poured his Holy Spirit on Jesus’ disciples (Acts 2:1-4, 14-18). In that moment, the followers of Jesus became the body of Christ on earth, filled with his Spirit, empowered to bring Refuge, Reconciliation, and Renewal through Jesus to the world.

We will celebrate Pentecost on Sunday, June 8, in two ways. Remembering that we are one congregation with two services, everyone is encouraged to attend the 10:30am service so that we can worship our God together with one voice, at the same time. We will still offer the 8am service on that day, but having as many people as possible present at the second service provides a significant expression of our Spirit-enabled unity in Christ. (Later in the year, everyone will be encouraged to attend the early service for yet another experience of this unity.)

Our annual “Family Picnic” is the second way in which we will celebrate Pentecost! Immediately following the 10:30am service, we will gather on the church lawn for an extended time of food, fun, and fellowship. Using the signup sheets outside the Nave doors, please sign up to let us know you’re coming, and what food you’re able to bring.

We’ll remind you of this festive day in the coming weeks, but please mark this on your calendar now. Just this morning I heard the song “Pentecost” by Mitch Wong, and it will be wonderful for us to embody his lyrics as one congregation on June 8 at 10:30am:

Make this Your upper room

Take Your time, we'll wait on You

Make this Your upper room

One heart, in one accord

We're here for You, and nothing more

One heart, in one accord

Spirit fall fresh on us

Like You did at Pentecost

With holy fire, a mighty rush

Like You did at Pentecost

Your Pastor in Christ,