I have a dream. What if this coming Sunday, August 13, 2023, we have the highest in-person worship attendance that we have had so far this year at Grace? We start the 2023-2024 school year this week in Brevard County, so this Sunday is the best time to worship and pray for teachers, students, parents, and all school personnel. My family calendar has revolved around the school calendar for the past 17 or 18 years, and this year is the first year since 2007 that we do not have a child in the public school system. I know the stress and excitement that comes with each new school year. As the church, it is important that we share the challenges that our community faces so that, with God’s help, we enter into a new school year with a positive spirit.
There will be a luncheon and fun activities for children immediately following our 11am service Sunday. The support of our church family comes to life in casual community events like this, so plan to come out and enjoy the festivities and meet some new people. If you have friends or neighbors who do not have a church home, invite them to come Sundaywith their families to enjoy worship followed by lunch and fun for the children.
This Sunday we begin a new series on the topic of justice. The scripture passages are Micah 6:8 and Jeremiah 29:11. Pastor Gary will offer a message entitled “What Does God Require?” This series is a great opportunity for us to consider how we understand the meaning of justice in the world and how we can pursue justice as followers of Jesus. I hope you will plan to attend all three weeks of the series.
Ms. Patti tells me that the “Gathering Grounds” coffee bar will be up and running again this Sunday! So, we can enjoy coffee between or before services, and then lunch and fun after the 11:00 service.
There are so many good reasons to be at Grace UMC this Sunday, so make your plans now to attend. I look forward to seeing you and spending worship and casual time with you. Remember that together we are the hands and feet of Jesus!
Steve Hart