Dear Caldwell,
Time has taken on a different meaning in 2020, hasn’t it?
For example, I could hardly believe it was a year ago today when so many of us were in Montreat for the All-Church Retreat. We talked a lot that weekend about the story of Jesus calming the storm. We came home telling each other to “stay in the boat” because that’s where Jesus was. Who knew how appropriate that would be for this stormy year?
For people of faith who mark time by the church (or liturgical) calendar, most weeks of the year, including this one, fall into what is called “Ordinary Time” as opposed to the times of the year such as Lent, Eastertide, Advent and other holy seasons.
Ordinary time? Just what, if anything, has been ordinary about 2020? NOT!
So, as this Sunday is the last Sunday of the church year, I am sure you join me in saying goodbye to one year and orienting ourselves again to the God of all of time, whose grace and care is already paving the future for us.
We call this Sunday “Christ the King Sunday” for that very purpose. I realize the language of a “king” brings with it some ideas that are not so positive. The world has had plenty of bad human kings – and others who would be king. But we turn to Christ as the leader of our kin-dom, reigning over all human governments, structures and systems.
To help us with that, Caldwell member and seminary intern Lia Benton will preach for us this Sunday, and she’ll host the Preachers’ Porch tonight. She’s looking at two scriptures – Psalm 95:1-7 and Acts 6:1-7. Come and spend time with us as we look at these two passages and how they speak to us in these highly not-so-ordinary times. We are in for a “good word” from Lia, who’s having great success in seminary even while she juggles work and family.
Did You Get Your Advent Gift Bag?
The staff had a Covid-safe blast seeing so many members as they came by the church Sunday to pick up a special gift that’s awaiting all as we get ready for Advent.
If you didn’t come by Sunday, please do today – at church from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The contents will help us stay connected to each other and to our dreams of what God has in store for us in Advent and beyond. We’ll be masked and gloved and ready to see you.
Room In the Inn
On Sunday, we heard Mike and Lynn Watson tell us how we can help support A Roof Above and its effort to house those experiencing homelessness. As the temperatures drop, the need increases. This year we will be providing much-needed meals as others provide safe places to sleep. You can read all about how to help and sign up by clicking here.
And … why not “attend” the Roof Above virtual Annual Luncheon tomorrow to learn more about all the amazing things that ministry does for our city? It’s free. Click here to register.
We’re Getting Closer – But Not There Yet
Our virtual stewardship campaign is about 75% toward where we need to be for 2021. We know this is an uncertain time and that some households have been impacted by the pandemic. All the more reason for those of us who are able to pledge to do so.
Please take a moment to reflect on what Caldwell means in your life and click here to make a pledge for 2021 to enable the church to continue to be a light of inclusive welcome and loving justice.
Hope to see you on the Porch tonight at 7 p.m.
In Christ, John