This morning, I watched some news footage of the incredible storm damage in Florida, North Carolina and other states. Sadly, it also included reports of known injuries and deaths. At the same time, there were inspiring news stories of neighbors helping neighbors. There were also accounts of those who reached out to others, who had previously been strangers, and who now will always be part of each other’s life stories. These kinds of experiences reside not only in our memories, but also in our hearts.
St. Mark’s story has also lived in both the memory and hearts of generations. It began as a church with a pastor, Rev. Dick Hamilton, but without a congregation or building. As Rev. Hamilton knocked on hundreds of doors inviting individuals and families to come to a church, without a building, stewardship took many forms.
There was a culture of stewardship, born both out of necessity and desire, for everyone to give of their time, talents, prayers and resources. Sunday School classes, for children, were held in the homes of church members. The greater community contributed, as well. This included Day Mortuary, which offered a space for the first St. Mark’s worship services (at no cost).
This Sunday, after worship, all are welcome to come to Garton Hall and share a special meal together as we mark St. Mark’s 70th Anniversary as a church community. We hope you can be here to join the celebration and dream into the future ahead, as we enter into this Stewardship season. Together, we will reflect upon who we are called to be as we enter the first days, weeks and years of the next 70 years,
In worship, we will reflect on what this also might mean for us as individuals, as a community of faith, and in the gifts we bring the creative, complex, caring and challenging world we share. We will also share a Children’s Moment, pray and reflect, a stewardship moment offered by Charlie Nelms, and sing hymns. The Children’s Chimes Choir (joined by some of the “young at heart”) will share a musical piece, under the direction of Lois Leong. Our first Scripture reading (1 Peter 4:7-10) will be read by Kristen Hess, and our second Scripture reading (Acts 20:32-35) will be read by Mollie Lemon. The sermon is titled “Embracing the Heart of Stewardship”.
If you have been part of the St. Mark’s community for a long time, a short time, or will be joining us for the first time, we look forward to connecting with those of you here in-person or joining on the livestream.
To connect to our livestream worship Sunday morning,
click the link on our website www.smumc.church.
The service starts at 10:30am. Livestream starts at 10:25am.