A MESSAGE FROM THE PASTOR
On October 8th, the Congregation Council approved a resolution that Holy Communion be celebrated weekly at every regularly-scheduled service.
This very significant decision was made with the highest level of care and reverence. In preparation for this decision, we celebrated Holy Communion at every service since May 25, included 10 reflections on Holy Communion over the summer, and opened discussion through bulletin inserts, newsletter articles and two discussion forums. A significant portion of the congregation participated in this process.
As this introduces significant change, we must lovingly consider the impact of this change on the members of this congregation. As we adjust to this change, I invite everyone to approach it as an opportunity to more frequently experience the blessing that we receive in Holy Communion. I also invite everyone to be open to discovering the ways that this change affirms the profound importance of the sacrament in our lives and in our life together. As your pastor, I am glad to be available to anyone during this time of change and discovery.
I also invite everyone to celebrate and affirm the impact of this change on the identity of Temple Lutheran Church as we reach out to our neighbors with the good news of Jesus. We can also celebrate and affirm the impact of this decision on our identity as a congregation within the larger Lutheran tradition.
As this change is implemented, there are two very important ways that all members of this congregation can be involved in affirming the importance of Holy Communion in our life together. Volunteers are needed to join the Communion setup/cleanup team, which requires approximately 20 minutes of time before and after the service that you regularly attend (on weeks that you are scheduled). Worship teams will also begin to meet to discuss how to continue shaping each service in a way that nurtures faith, welcomes newcomers, and is mindful of practical concerns (including length of the services). Please consider how you will be a part of this team effort and contact the church office to volunteer for communion setup/cleanup and a worship planning team.
