Dear MRC Family,
Pentecost blessings to you in this season of Ordinary Time
Plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose.
The more things change, the more they stay the same.
I’ve been thinking about this phrase, particularly this week as I’ve been writing my sermon. Why? Come this Sunday to worship to find out! We have a special musical treat for you as Sarah Hanvey and Brian Kolins will be joining Tom to sing praises to God. I am preaching from Amos 1.1-2; 5.14-15, 21-24 —Amos and God are mad, mad, mad about some stuff — and my sermon title is We Are the River. As we didn’t have our Sunday brunch last week due to some of our Kitchen Team being ill, we will have it this Sunday after worship. Since it is the second Sunday of the month, we will receive our Deacons’ offering to help those in need in our church and community. And beloved, there is SO much need right now. If you are unable to be in person, we will be streaming live on our YouTube channel, https://www.youtube.com/@mrcafabulouschurchoflove1611.
As you are aware, food insecurity is a great concern right now with the government shutdown. You can help by volunteering for Middletown Helps Its Own Thanksgiving Dinner delivery on November 22 at New Monmouth Baptist Church, 9AM. If you are able to volunteer, please call Beverly Bova Scarano at 908-896-1682. Thank you!
In these challenging times, I give you these encouraging words from Steve Garnaas-Holmes —
Friend, I need you here, where you are.
This is what I’ve been preparing you for.
All that talk about taking up your cross? This is it.
I have sent you here with all my love,
love: which is courage for another.
The world’s pain is natural; your presence is my grace.
I am with you. They are all with you.
Not in the outcome, but in your connection,
is your salvation.
Keep following and bothering Jesus, beloved
With gratitude for the privilege of being your pastor and the holy call of loving you,
Pastor Trish