Celebration and Commitment

This is a "glimpse of the Kingdom of God" from one of Caldwell's children. On Sunday, we bring our pledges, that glimpses like this one may multiply.

Dear Caldwell,

“Teachers that strive to make the world better for so little in return.”

“The birth of my child.”

“Reaching out to newcomers.”

“Homeless shelters, food banks and soup kitchens.”

“Rallying around a friend.”

“Teaching immigrants English.”

“Storm clouds clearing.”

“Recovery.”

Those were just a few of the “glimpses of the Kingdom” you posted on the whiteboard in worship last Sunday. Now it is time to rededicate ourselves to multiplying them in real life. On Sunday, Discipleship Commitment Sunday, we will bring and dedicate our pledges of time, talent and money as our response to a loving and gracious God.

If you have not already, please sit down with the materials you received in the mail. Prayerfully take stock of your blessings and all that you can return to God in your time, service and financial resources. Online resources, including a way to pledge and give online, are here http://www.caldwellpresby.org/discipleship2013/

Sunday we will sing, pray, welcome new members, hear some reflections on discipleship and consider Isaiah’s words of assurance to Israel about our always-faithful God (Isaiah 40). A note to remember: Our boiler has died, leaving us without heat. You may want to bring a jacket or sweater, just in case. (No this is not a joke or a ploy of the Stewardship Committee!)

First, though, we celebrate with fish, chicken, fun and fellowship Saturday from 4-7.

Other things to remember:

  • A Caldwell Crop Walk Team is still welcoming donations to help feed those who do not have enough to eat. You can contact Marion Idol or make a donation to a walker Saturday or Sunday.
  • After worship, any who are interested are welcome to join our newcomers for lunch at Hawthorne Pizza.,
  • Sunday night at 6, Parish Associate Minister Diane Mowrey leads a conversation of the book titled Toxic Charity, sure to lead to some worthwhile discussion and thought.
  • Youth gather also at 6 pm Sunday
  • The Adult Christian Education class (Sunday 9:45 am, Shelby) continues its dialogue about the historic – and still-speaking – Heidelberg Catechism.

Finally, we are praying for our Vision Team in Guatemala, which leaves to return home this Sunday. We are grateful for their service to our neighbors there.

See you soon!

In Christ,

John