Membership as Discipship and the Week Ahead

Membership as Discipleship
This past Sunday I spoke briefly on membership as discipleship. In our own Faith and Practice it describes membership as an experience in discipleship. But, when we hear the word "discipleship" I fear that we might think of heavy duty study with three-ring binder notebooks for those only truly serious about being spiritual. The truth is that discipleship is for everyone and it's not a "one time" experience nor it is just an event. Discipleship is a journey in which we make a conscious choice and decision to live in solidarity with Jesus and the reign of God that Jesus invites us to follow and participate in. To live in solidarity with Jesus means that we value the same things Jesus values as well as do what Jesus did. Discipleship is less a program and more a way of life. To become a member, then, is to publicly acknowledge that you are willing to engage that journey at a thoughful level. This doesnt mean you will be perfect or always get it right in following Jesus. It does mean that you will seek to be faithful to the way of Jesus and to give thought to it's implications for your daily living. As a member, it's a journey we take together and not just as individuals. To be sure, there are ways activities and programs we can participate in that will help us in this journey...

• Participate in our "Digging Deeper" Sunday evening series along with the Disciple Bible Study or the book study
• Attend a Sunday School Class
• Be as regular as possible to meeting for worship
• Attend our Contemplative / Silent worship at 9AM
• Join with others in a book study, prayer group, or Bible study
• Be active in service to others
• Seek ways to apply your faith and the way of Jesus to your daily decisions - whether it be at work, in politics, or in your family
• Take time for silence and prayer to hear the voice of the Living Christ

These are just some of the practices we can engage in to aid us in our journey. Whatever you choose, seek to bring meaning to your membership. Seek to make it a journey of abundance and life!

Thanks To Everyone Who Helped At The BBQ

Thanks to everyone who helped at our Fall BBQ this past Saturday. It takes alot of folks to make it a success. Most of all, it's a great opportunity to join together in a common project as well as meet people and fellowship with each other. At the same time, we are able to raise money for worthy projects as well as ongoing projects around the meeting house. Again, thanks to everyone for your participation!