Heading into October, the ministries of the program year are well underway. Choirs are rehearsing, church school children and their teachers are meeting on Sunday mornings, and the Confirmation program is in full swing. I anticipate that come October, folks will start to embrace the fall schedule of events in their lives.
I have no great issues or themes to share with you this month (aside from the ones that we preach in worship), but there are three reminders of events described in greater detail in the newsletter that I want to list, briefly.
First, there are one of our “5-For5” all-church offerings, Neighbors In Need (NIN), that we will be receiving on October 4th—World Communion Sunday. NIN is a special mission offering of the UCC that supports ministries of justice and compassion throughout the United States. One-third of NIN funds support the Council for American Indian Ministry. Two-thirds of the offering is used by the UCC’s Justice and Witness ministries to support a variety of justice initiatives, advocacy efforts, and direct service projects through grants. I urge folks to consider supporting this offering with a generous response.
Second, the Praying Hands Ministry is holding their first event on Saturday, October 10th, at 3:30 p.m. (fellowship begins at 3:15 p.m.). I am excited about this ministry: it was generated after our summer study on healing prayer and it is led by a core of church members who have a passion for healing prayer. If you wish to make prayers of healing a greater part of your life, this ministry may be of particular interest to you.
Last, Sunday, October 18th is Children’s Sabbath at Salem. It’s always a good thing when our youth contribute their talents as they participate in worship. The level of energy and enthusiasm is such a positive thing. I hope that many of you will be a part of this Sunday morning worship experience.
There are a lot of good things happening through the ministries of Salem. As always, I invite your prayers, welcome your participation, and encourage your enthusiasm.
Your servant in Christ, Rev. James Hoppert