Blessings, One Way or Another
Dear MRC Family,
Pentecost blessings to you in this season of Ordinary Time
If you were in worship a few weeks ago, I announced that our Blessing of the Animals worship would be outside in the Meditation/Prayer Garden. Then, I jokingly added, “But, we will see. Any time a church plans an event outside the Devil says, ‘Ha! Let’s get busy!’”
Well, it seems the Devil got really busy. We’re not just having rain this Sunday, but a full blown tropical storm/Nor’easter with very high winds and a lot of rain. Grrrrr. I realize you may be hesitant to bring your animal companion out in such a storm, as well as yourself! So, VP Lisa and I will monitor the storm and let you know if there are any change of plans for worship. Please look for an email, text, or Facebook post from me on Saturday evening as to our decision. As I have said time and time again, your safety in these situations is the most important issue for me. One way or another, in person or online, blessings will be offered as we praise God for our glorious creation and beloved animal companions.
As of now, Tom will lead us in our hymns and sing the Prelude “Mighty to Save” and the Anthem “Loved.” I am preaching from Psalm 104.1-15, 24-34 and my sermon title is Charlotte’s Web (Not EB White). If you are unable to be in person, we will be streaming live on our YouTube channel, https://www.youtube.com/@mrcafabulouschurchoflove1611.
Of note: Jamie and I will be away on vacation October 14-21 to celebrate our 4th wedding anniversary. I leave you in faithful hands while I am away, as on October 19, we are pleased to welcome to the pulpit Terri Sadler, VP of Consistory at the Community Church of Keyport and a student at New Brunswick Theological Seminary. Pastor Grace Modla will be on call for me should there be any pastoral emergencies. Her number is 732-740-0451. For all other matters, please contact VP of Consistory Lisa Leidecker at 973-568-1166.
Also, on October 22, I will be flying to Holland, MI where I have been invited to be the preacher at the Room for All Conference: Your Faithfulness Continues — Celebrating 20 Years of Room for All. I look forward to being back with you in worship on October 26.
Keep following and bothering Jesus, beloved. See you Sunday, Lord willing and the creek don’t rise (seriously)!
With gratitude for the privilege of being your pastor and the holy call of loving you,
Pastor Trish