Our church family is blessed by the love, care and support that is shared with one another through worship and fellowship. As our program year begins, we see our youth preparing for faith formation, choir and handbells gathering, and the women’s monthly book group beginning another season. In addition, some groups like Pastor Joanna’s coffee chat and Pub Theology have met throughout the summer.

As our congregation continues to flourish, love, care, and support of one another is an essential ingredient. We will be creating some new opportunities to support our members who are caring for loved ones. Our initial meeting is an invitation to begin conversation entitled: Cookies and Caring Conversation. This will be a time for those who are caregivers and those who would be interested in discussing ways to care for and support others. Our first meeting will be on Wednesday, September 18th at 1:30 in the parlor. I look forward to gathering for a time of fellowship and an opportunity to share challenges, gifts and concerns related to caregiving.

Sandie King will also be offering: Moving Through Life’s losses: A Creative and Holistic Approach at Lakewood High School on Tuesdays 6:30pm-8:00 pm from Sept. 17th to October 22nd. Additional information is on the bulletin board in the West Clifton Hallway.

In addition, The Living Water Association is offering a zoom seminar entitled Pastoral Care 101- Visitation Program in Your Church on Thursday, October 24th from 6:30-8:00pm. She writes: Care is a central part of who we are. We live out Christ’s care for a world in need. But we, too, need care. In the crisis moments of life, in seasons of loss and grief, we need Christ’s loving presence to be real and tangible for us. This self-care function of the church is “pastoral care,” though the pastor can’t and shouldn’t do all of it. This learning opportunity will guide you in setting up a pastoral care program that your whole congregation can be part of. This information will also be posted in the West Clifton Hallway.

As beloved children of our Divine Creator, it is imperative that we honor the whole person, mind, body and spirit. As we love and care for ourselves, opportunities to care and support others are created. I look forward to deepening relationships within our church family and throughout the community.

Blessings, grace and peace,
Rev. Catherine