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The Rev. Dr. Cynthia Cearley
Lead Pastor of Congregational Life
Dear friends,
As we head into this time of gratitude, I offer a reminder. Scriptures teach us that having a grateful heart and acting in gracious ways lead to a faithful life. We not only do this as individuals, we do this as "the church." Our mission projects, worship time and caring ministries reflect our corporate identity in the world. The trick, of course, is that these "corporate" acts only happen when individuals come together to make them happen.
This year it is Montview's turn to host the Interfaith Thanksgiving Service on Thanksgiving Day at 10:00 a.m. Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, Catholics and Protestants will come together in a time of worship, prayer and gratitude. As host, we will provide cookies, fruit and pastries for a fellowship time following the service. The only way the "church" can host this event is if many individuals of this community bring a plate of cookies or pastries to share.
This Sunday, at 10:15a.m. in the Sanctuary, we will gather as a "congregation" to elect our officers (Elders and Deacons) for next year. We can only do this if "the congregation" shows up! We need individual members (that means you!) to attend this brief meeting to vote on our new slate of officers.
Yes, we have a talented and capable staff at Montview. But they can't do everything. To be "the congregation"...to be "the church," each one of us is asked to contribute, extend ourselves, do our part and be a part of the individuals, at any point in time, that become "the church."
Please make time to join us for the congregational meeting this Sunday at 10:15 a.m. and help us host our Interfaith Thanksgiving Service by bringing a plate of cookies, fruit or pastries, either to the service Thanksgiving Day or by dropping them off in the commons refrigerator a couple of days before Thanksgiving. Click here to tell us if you are able to bring a plate of cookies, fruit or pastries.
(Remember the church is closed Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of Thanksgiving week - except for the service Thursday morning.)
Together, we are Montivew Church.
Blessings and gratitude for each of you.
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The Rev. Ian Gregory Cummins
Lead Pastor of Spiritual Life
Hi Everyone,
Here's the Lectio Divina for this week:
"Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD guards the city, the guard keeps watch in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives sleep to his beloved."
Psalm 127:1-2
The psalmist reminds us that all our hard work doesn't amount to much if it is done for the wrong reasons. If, out of fear or pride or selfishness, we choose self-promotion and security over compassion and sacrifice for others, then we may be very successful - we may build a magnificent 'house'. But it will not be a house built with God and, therefore, will be in vain.
This is true for each of us individually, and on this Election Day, it also seems apt for our country. However the election turns out tonight, each of us can commit to work toward a country and a community that we believe God would want - a country that promotes Gospel values of service, inclusion and taking care of those in need. That house may take some time to build, but our work will never be in vain.
Grace and goodness,
Ian
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