Spooner Summer 2005
In this Edition
- Pastor's Corner
- Calling All Youth
- Urgent Help Needed
- Finance Update
- Farewell to Witherspoon
- Christian Education
- Deacon Board
- Men’s Chorus
- Usher Board
- Peace Notes
- Our Christian Heritage
- Behind the Walls
- Hospitality Network
- Jazz in New Orleans
- United Negro College Fund
All Editions
Pastor's Corner
Dear Members and Friends,
I
know I am supposed to write something profound
and religious and uplifting, but my brain has already
kicked into summer mode. I’m having difficulty focusing
on anything but barbecues, my stack of books especially
set aside for summer reading, planning a trip,
gardening, and so much more.
But even as my brain is kicking into summer mode, I am reminded every day that there is still a world out there. As I pack the next box to mail to my daughter in Iraq, my thoughts and prayers go out to the families of those who have lost their lives in the last few weeks and days and pray for an end to the madness of war. As I plan the worship services and sermons I think of my church flock and pray for each of you for health, wholeness and happiness. As I sit in meetings and interact with people who work for the best in and for our communities, I am made aware that crime is on the rise and that it is so easy to wring my hands and give in to fear. As I watch the news and read the papers I am constrained to pray for our political leaders as they make decisions with an eye to the next election rather than work for the good of their constituents.
Yes, even though it is summer, the world does not stop. Neither does the church. Worship will continue every Sunday, for God is faithful in every season and wherever we are, come Sunday mornings, we need to be in church, worshipping and praising God. And even as we scatter for the summer, Witherspoon will still be here, and our financial commitments to the church will not magically go away with the summer heat. Utility bills still need to be paid. The hardworking staff of Witherspoon would like to continue to eat during the summer; our commitment pledges topurchase the Taylor/Robeson House need to continue. The work of the Deacons needs to continue. So, as we plan our summer budgets, the first item needs to be our financial pledge to the church. The rule should be “first to God” because God will bless our faithfulness.
Have a wonderful, restful summer and come back refreshed. Grace and peace to you.
Rev. Muriel Burrows