Allow me to once again express my thanks to the congregation of Emmanuel UCC, Dorrance. My wife and I are thrilled with the prospect of my ministry with you! Traci is especially thrilled that many thought that she was my daughter, something she has referred back to throughout the week! Anyway, that did not overshadow your “extravagant welcome” as the UCC church says.
We were especially impressed with the great group of young people attending the service. They really made my son Nick feel great. Also, their work on the posters, the spread of food and sweets afterward…I could go on and on, but it all boils down to a committed group of Christian people who exemplify the motto “Wherever you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.
I tend to view life as a journey. As I looked at the pictures of the past ministers that have served Emmanuel, there is a great sense of pride in knowing I will join that list. I can promise you nothing but the best I have to offer both pastorally and personally.
This week we will once again visit with Isaiah, hearing from Isaiah 49: 1-7 and the Gospel lesson John 1: 29-42. Call and vocation in ministry lie at the heart of this week’s lectionary texts. The unknown servant in this reading is in dialogue with God. The prophet Isaiah confronts human failings amid his desire to fulfill the calling of God which was determined in his mother’s womb. The unknown servant in the text brings an address which identifies a call to the nation of Israel, and to us. It sounds interesting, so invite a friend to come along with you on Sunday!
For those congregation member’s I have not met, I look forward to it, and I will be visiting our sick and shut-ins as I progress throughout the weeks.
Shalom,
