Dear Gloria Dei,
This past Sunday and Wednesday, I got to be in on the first session of our fall new member class. 67 people! During introductions, people shared about their lives and what they love about God and Gloria Dei. There were some words and phrases that consistently came up about God. Words like “grace,” “forgiveness,” “steadfast,” “loving.” Phrases like “always present” and “with me no matter what.” It never fails to move me when people share their confessions of God’s work in their lives. It was a boost to my faith to hear their stories.
I want you to know about the words and phrases they shared about Gloria Dei, too. These words had a theme and consistency, as well, and they included “welcoming,” “vibrant,” “friendly,” “caring.” They were talking about you!
Talking about you – but, really, about the Holy Spirit. It’s our confession that it’s the work of the Holy Spirit to call and gather us in, to give us faith, to unite us as a body of Christ. Whether you know it or not, the Holy Spirit is at work in your life, calling you and gathering you into church for the sake of your faith but also for the sake of your neighbor’s faith. Your presence at Gloria Dei, in person and online, makes a difference to your neighbor. It means something to walk into a church and feel the vitality of the body of Christ. It means something to walk in and be seen and welcomed with the same joy that the widow had when she found her lost coin. It means something to be able to sit in the presence of others and hear that you are a sinner, forgiven in Christ. There is a WE to faith. You, through the Holy Spirit, are a part of that WE at Gloria Dei. You matter here.
You could also say, regarding your neighbor, that you were Made For Serving, the theme this week in worship as we continue our Made For sermon series. Oh, the things that God does with your life! Serving your neighbor through your gifts, skills, work, and even your simple presence.
There are many things happening this fall at Gloria Dei and lots of opportunities to Gather, Grow, Give, and Go. Do check out the Signups and Happenings page and know that there is a place for you here.
See you in church,
Pastor Heidi
