Growing Together, Serving Together

     Two weeks ago in this space I wrote about how we are better together. I employed Paul’s metaphor of the body of Christ, saying that none of us can go it alone in the life of discipleship; we need each other. “Better Together” is the theme for our fall kickoff this Sunday here at Community UCC. As we get started with another program year, let us consider how we can work alongside one another, combining our gifts as the Spirit directs in order to accomplish the ministry God has in mind for us in 2026–27.

     On Sunday, I invite you to examine the descriptions of ministries and committees that are already active within our fellowship and to consider where and how you can get involved. You may feel hesitant about pledging yourself for an open-ended commitment, so please understand that we are just talking about this September through May of next year. If you wish to continue in your chosen position after that term, well and good. If you would rather move on, feel free to do that. Ideally, you would move on to another form of ministry in our church or community rather than moving on to doing nothing. We really are better together, and we are diminished when certain members of the body choose to sit on the sidelines. Let’s all get in the game.

     Another way to express the theme of “Better Together” is to get involved in a faith formation group for that same September-to-May period. Also known as small groups, faith formation groups are designed to help you grow in faith and discipleship. The faith formation groups we are offering this year include Adult Studies, Bible Reading, Prayer Practices, Relationship Evangelism Project, and Supper Clubs. Descriptions and sign up sheets for each of these groups will be available as well.

     There are a great number of ways to employ your spiritual gifts (which you can discover, by the way, by completing a spiritual gifts inventory, also available on Sunday) and perform vital service and outreach here at Community. I hope you will take a few moments on Kickoff Sunday to explore the possibilities and make a short-term (or longer) commitment to one or more of them.

     Let us grow our church. Let us draw our circle wide to take in people of different backgrounds and circumstances. Let us reach out to our community. Let us do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with our God. Let us continue to grow spiritually, share God’s love, and serve others, and may it truly be said of Community UCC that no matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are always welcome here.