May the peace of God be with you.
These days are bringing to our Region (and nation) many challenging moments, some which are unfathomable, and others not lived before in our lifetime. We may be in great pain or concern for the here and now. There are many more questions that swirl about our church, society’s current state, and the future. In these times, we do not lose hope, drawing our strength from the promises and peace of Christ. In Hebrews 13:5, we hear the promise “I will never leave you or forsake you.”
No matter the challenges, we know love will win as it always does. Our prayers will sustain, carry, and move us on to courage. Rabbi Abraham Joshua Hescehel has famously been quoted as saying, “When I marched in Selma (in 1965), my feet were praying.” Amid the civil unrest, may the usurped troubles we see not drown out the cries we hear from our sisters and brothers of color. Let us work that justice not be elusive for some and made real for everyone. Let us live into the truths, that “there is no distinction… the same Lord is Lord of all and is generous to all who call on him.” (Rom. 10:12). I invite us all into a season of prayer for our Region (and nation), whether that might be with your feet in a march or in our secret place/s with the Lord.
Please let me share with you these important sentiments, sent to me from one of our beloved past Regional staff, who served our ministry, faithfully and with dedication from almost 40 years ago.
I write this quick line to express my thoughts and concerns for you in the life and ministry of our Regional Church. Without question, your commitment to the ‘call’ of ministry and your skills of leadership equip you for a wholesome and abiding ministry.
Given this, the measure of your witness is met with chaotic turbulence in which we live. The church faces decisions never captioned before. In best of times, Regional Ministry is complex – but now it is layered with unexpected involvements that the church must address with compassion and fruition. It’s difficult!
I am grateful for you and I express concern for you in these days many intersections and uncertainties. Do take care of yourself, be healthy and find fulfilling blessings in each day’s landscape.
Thank you for your gifts, concern and cares for us. With the help of God. These things we will do, together.
Blessings,
Richie
Below is a webinar sponsored by Church West Insurance Services coming up on Tuesday, June 2nd @ 11 am PDT. Participants will need to register here.
Before We Gather: Reopening Your Worship Service
There have been plenty of guidelines provided by state, local, ministry & legal resources lately. However, there hasn't been much provided in the way of actionable plans that you can use to model a plan for your ministry. We've looked at the guidelines for California and will be providing you with a plan you can use through this first stage.
All attendees will receive a model program for you to tailor to your ministry for reopening.