Oct 18th

Starting this Sunday afternoon at 3:30 our church membership/information class for older youth and adults will begin. These are some of my favorite times. Bringing new people into more effective, involved participation in the church is essential to a healthy congregation. There are fourteen people who expressed interest in this class, and hopefully, we will find at the end of our time together that their gifts and abilities and our vision of ministry will fit nicely together. Pray for God's Spirit to grow deeper, richer connections as we explore discipleship and life in the body of Christ known as the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

Speaking of gifts and abilities, at the session meeting this coming Sunday one of the agenda items we will be discussing is a "Time and Talent and Commitment " survey. It was brought to my attention that it had been a couple of years since the congregation had gone through that process. It will be nice to give folks an opportunity to assess their own gifts and abilities and work through a process that will enable all of us to more faithfully utilize the gifts and abilities that God has given to us.

Also, at this Sunday's meeting we will be discussing our stewardship campaign. Our response to God's graciousness this year has been good. The church is in a good financial position. Faithful response with the money we earn is an important piece of our discipleship, one in which many respects measures the real depth of commitment that a congregation has to her ministry. As we continue to serve a growing community and continue to seek new ways to reach out and support and serve people our faithful financial response becomes increasingly important. Jesus knew the truth of the matter when he said, " Where your treasure is there will your heart be also."

One final, personal note. I want to thank the CPWM for the beautiful card and generous gift they gave to me on Pastor Appreciation Day. Also, I wish to thank the children and youth Sunday School classes for the hand made cards, posters, and papers they gave to me. They are all in my office ? greatly appreciated ? lovingly received. It is a joy to serve as your pastor. May God continue to affirm our work together and bring us toward becoming who we are to become.

Grace and peace,