I'm a real Starbucks fan - but this one really got me thinking....
I'm a real Starbucks fan - but this one really got me thinking....
Posted at 12:14 PM in Religion | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Key Biblical Themes in
Thirty Weeks
We live in increasingly complex times. As “People of the Word” it’s important that we turn to the scriptures for guidance as we navigate these waters. But, achieving basic biblical literacy can sometimes seem a daunting task in itself. Also, how can we “apply” our knowledge of the scriptures to the real and pressing issues of our daily life?
In the coming weeks I will begin a series of sermons that I hope will address these issues.
I will be preaching a series of sermons entitled “Thirty in Thirty: Key Biblical Themes in Thirty Weeks.” I hope to provide an overview of the scriptures as a whole – and touch on how these key “themes” are more than just interesting bits of history or theology. They are the stuff from which we can build a life of faith that is real, relevant, and renewing.
Get ready – it’ll be a whirlwind trip through the Bible – but one I pray will be beneficial to all.
Paul
Posted at 12:09 PM in Religion, Sermons | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Thanks to some mission funds from District 10 of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Virginia - www.ccinva.org - and lots of hard work from our members - we have been donating much needed food to the Goochland County Family Services Food Bank, Goochland, Virginia. We've been sending roughly 100 pounds a week! This food is readily and thankfully received by 65-70 clients weekly.
Posted at 10:12 AM in Current Affairs, Religion | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Technorati Tags: Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Elpis Christian Church, food outreach, mission, service
Here's an example of some of the great content that you can find related to our recent General Assembly . . .
Posted at 09:30 AM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Technorati Tags: Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Elpis Christian Church, religion, The Mustard Seed
Posted at 10:59 PM in Current Affairs, Religion | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Technorati Tags: Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), DOC General Assembly, Worship
In the coming days I plan to post key points from a wonderful little book called ALL CHURCHES GREAT AND SMALL: 6O IDEAS FOR IMPROVING YOUR CHURCH'S MINISTRY. Written by Kirk and Rosie Farnsworth, co-pastors of The Gathering Church in Kingston,Washington. It celebrates the unique ability of the small church to be truly great. In a world where so often "bigger is better" is the predominant cry - this book celebrates the intimate, free, life enriching spirit of the small congregation. The authors say, "Don't buy into the bogus sales pitch that it's all about more bodies, bucks, and buildings." While I support growth - when it is not just for "growths" sake - I agree that there is much to be said for the way the small church does things. In fact - have you noticed that it is the "mega" churches who are all jumping on the "small group" bandwagon - so that their ministries can touch and motivate people in a more intimate way and effective way? So - let's "celebrate small" - and explore how it can lead to truly great ministry.
Small-church advantages: Ten Vital Qualities for Identifying Your Church's Strengths
1. Pastoral Leadership is faithful to the biblical model.
Everyone is a minister.
The appeal of size, power, and influence is resisted.
2. Being a church family is a reality.
Everyone is included.
Church gatherings are communal as well as relational.
3. Members live in covenant with one another.
They focus on disciple-making, mutual accountability, solemn commitment to
the body of Christ, and a strong sense of belonging in God's family.
Church governance is free from politics.
4. Everyone's spiritual gifts are used in ministry.
5. Christian education is viewed as a means for people to become apprentices to Jesus
to live out Christ's kingdom imperatives.
Education takes place within a family context rather than creating separate generational
cultures.
6. The congregation is free to be innovative in worship.
7. Prayer is foundational for everything the church does.
The church is a house of prayer, with corporate prayer as the cornerstone.
8. Stewardship structures eliminate the pressure to give but encourage the pleasure of giving.
The church also adjusts its corporate lifestyle to become a biblically faithful, giving community.
9. A Spirit-formed church is coming into being.
As the congregation abides in the Holy Spirit, his presence and power pervade the life of the church.
10. Relationship evangelism and church multiplication become a part of the corporate DNA.
Posted at 11:51 AM in Books, Religion | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Technorati Tags: church life, religion, small church. ministry
Yesterday we recognized one of our most faithful, dedicated members...30 years serving as the clerk of the congregation. That's a whole lot of board meetings....
What were the qualities the first disciples of Christ exhibited - what gifts did they bring to their ministry - and what sacrifices were they willing to make? Here's some thoughts on that...
Posted at 11:08 AM in Religion, Sermons | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Note to parents (forgive me for prying)
When was the last time you read a bedtime story to your kids?
I've been spending a lot of time lately learning to blog, tweet, spitter, and sputter. I have time to do things like that - I don't have any kids of my own. But, as I've been looking at everything that is out there for parents and kids to consume online - well, it makes me wish we all spent more time reading - books and quality children's literature that is. I know you are busy. I know you are tired. Believe me - I know my congregation pretty well.
I also know your kids are dying for you to read to them.
Just a thought.
PS - I've just started following HIGHLIGHTS on Twitter. I'd forgotten how fun "missing picture" puzzles are. Maybe bedtime stories are next...
Posted at 11:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Well - soon there should be plenty of pictures, articles, and "blow by blow" descriptions of what happened at our General Assembly. One thing is certain - whenever the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) gathers there's plenty to talk about. Read all about it www.disciplesworld.com
Posted at 10:58 PM in Current Affairs, Religion | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)