Conklin-Broad Avenue-North News

June Newsletter                         

Dear friends,

The June Newsletter is always one that challenges me. I feel something like a school teacher who is looking towards the summer months and feels the pressure of getting everything said before everyone disappears for the summer vacation. Now, I’m not saying that you are all going to disappear for the next few months but all of us do enjoy the opportunities that the summer months bring to us. I know I am looking forward to some vacation and some study leave time.

Summer is always thought of as a time to step back from all of the activities of the church that are a part of our regular schedule. But that is not necessarily the truth. There is still much going on at the church over the course of the summer. The first to come to mind is Vacation Bible School. This annual tradition is important for the children of our church and community. It allows them the opportunity of being immersed in the Bible and fun for a week of learning and growing. This is a great opportunity for the adults to serve and have some fun as well. They are looking for all sorts of volunteers to make this happen. If you are looking for something fun to do that is helpful talk to Joy Trudell or Lisa Weyant. Also think about whom you might bring to VBS from your family or your neighborhood.

Remember too that worship never ceases. We are maintaining the three services every Sunday schedule during the summer because so many of you asked for the options of time to worship to fit your schedule. The 8:30 service will be moving into the air conditioned chapel, so if the heat is difficult for you, you should consider this opportunity. We will also have the Second Sunday Celebration at 9:45 on the second Sunday of each month. For those of you looking for an upbeat worship experience this is a great option for you.

Wherever you travel, find a church and worship God. In our travels last summer, Debby and I worshipped in a number of very different churches. Styles varied, size varied, quality of music varied, quality of preaching varied but one constant remained. We went to worship God and wherever we were we were able to do so. We got something out of every worship service because we were not looking to get anything out of worship. We were there to give to God. We were blessed because we praised God –not because of the preacher, the musicians or the style of worship. Going to church is never about us. It is about honoring the One who created us, redeemed us and sustains us. To God alone be the Glory is a watchword of the Presbyterians that seems to have been forgotten. Wherever you are, make giving God the glory a priority.

May this summer be a time or renewal for you both physically and spiritually.

In Christ’s love,

P.S. Our expenses don’t stop in the summer. Be faithful in your giving so that we can meet our obligations as a church seeking to be faithful witnesses of Jesus Christ.