This fall we are embracing “A Season of Growth”.  Stewardship is at the heart of the gospel and our Christian faith.  So many stories in the Bible, along with the teachings of Jesus, recognize all the gifts God has given to us and our faithful living in response.  Stewardship has to do with all of life, not just our material resources. That’s why our work together as a community of faith is so important.

We celebrate our unique individuality and diversity of gifts - while at the same time affirming our common sense of purpose and vision as we seek to move together in God’s way.  That’s who we are as the Neighborhood Church. Paul tells us that we are all in the Christian enterprise together each having different roles to play and gifts to share, but all serving as fellow workers for God.  Friends, we need each other - for we are more together than we are individually. Indeed, we are more than the sum of our parts. That’s the beauty of working together when God gives the growth.  We each do our part and make our contributions and God mingles all of that together to create something beautiful, meaningful and fruitful.  Blessings beget blessings! When we offer ourselves in that way it’s amazing what God can do in and through us.

To each of you and all of you who share your talents, time and gifts with the church – thank you!  Your life offerings allow us to be the faithful church of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  In contemplating our life together, I am so excited about what the future holds and how God will help us grow.  I truly believe the coming chapter for our beloved Neighborhood Church will be vital, exciting and life giving - all because not only will God be with us, but God will be drawing us on in the way of growth.

                    With Enthusiasm, Joy and Gratitude,

Rev. Dr. David D. Young
Senior Minister

This piece originally appeared in The Wave on November 10, 2021.