April Message from Rev. Coplin & Newsletter
Dear Church,
I pray these words find you well! I am writing to you a bit late this month as we just wrapped up Holy Week with a celebratory Easter service. It was heartwarming to see many familiar and new faces, and I look forward to welcoming them again.
I recently shared with the Church Council the story of how my family joined our previous church, “Offerings.” We recently moved to the area and received a personal invitation from a new acquaintance. On our first visit, we were warmly met at a colorful hospitality table supplied with fresh coffee and attended by friendly faces. The atmosphere was one of genuine welcome and was designed to accommodate those who knew nothing about this church. Their name was odd and their worship space set up every week for service in a rented space. It was nothing fancy to be sure, yet the people were authentic. The service was highly liturgical, which was not something we were used to, but the casual atmosphere allowed us to relax as we learned. We truly enjoyed our visit but this church was nearly thirty minutes from our home and there were others we wanted to visit before settling on one.
After visiting churches much closer to home, we decided to make the drive back out to Offerings. As we approached the hospitality table, we were met by the same person who this time greeted us by name. As one who has difficulty remembering the names of my own children at times, I was impressed but also touched that someone in this new place knew us. The next Sunday was our third visit and I offered to help by handing out bulletins so this man could better attend to welcoming others. We joined their church several weeks later and I eventually served on their staff because there was something genuine going on that I wanted to be a part of.
Most churches we visited offered a table with coffee and donuts but I think the difference was that this particular table offered personal connection. Their space and service was mindfully set up to make newcomers feel at ease. And while every church I’ve ever known has need for people to serve, this church made me feel valued for who I was rather than what I could do for them. I truly think this is nearer to God’s love for us.
Jesus says at Matthew 10:29-31, “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. And even the hairs of your head are all counted. So do not be afraid; you are of more value than many sparrows.” As we begin this new month, I pray that our church be a place where everyone feels this deep sense of belonging and love. I pray that we will be reminded that the power of a personal touch, the warmth of a genuine smile, and the strength found in community embodies the very essence of God’s unconditional love. I pray we walk another month together, inspired by the knowledge that in God’s eyes, we are all cherished, infinitely valued, and lovingly welcomed, just as the sparrows are watched over with care.
Grace and peace,
Brian
View Full Monthly Newsletter, April 2024
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