This Sunday, October 17th, is observed as Laity Sunday in the United Methodist Church. Laity Sunday celebrates the ministry of all Christians to love God and neighbor. On this day we lift up the vocation of all to follow the way of love as exemplified by Jesus, and celebrate the gifts of leadership.
So, I want to take this moment and celebrate all of you for your faithful support and participation, not only in the life and ministry of Broadway Church, but also in the larger community. I strongly believe in the ‘priesthood of all believers’ reminding us that all of us are called to ministry, in different ways, and we need each other’s gifts and graces.
Today, I celebrate all of you who serve the church by:
Serving on committees, and volunteering in any way,
Singing in the choir, doing solos, and helping with music, media and reading,
Donating your time to keep our building clean, welcoming and accessible, and helping with building maintenance -- both inside and outside,
Ushering, monitoring, counting, making financial contributions, and offering support to the pastors and staff of the church,
Attending worship services and inviting your family and friends to attend worship,
and, I also celebrate you who serve the community by the work you do in the community -- either as gainful employment, as a volunteer, or as conscientious members of the community. I celebrate those who work constantly towards making this world a better place and those who name the inequities and injustices in this world. I celebrate you for all your unique contributions in this world, and who faithfully share in God’s mission and purpose for the world.
THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!
I pray that God may continue to bless each one of you, that God may guide you in all your decisions, protect you from all ill, and inspire you to be more involved in the every day life of the Broadway church and larger community.
Beloveds, if you feel called to a specific ministry, please do not hesitate to let us know, so together we may explore and partner. No idea is too small and no dream is too big. In the meantime let us continue to work towards unconditionally loving all God’s people, offering care for one another, and building God’s kin-dom here and now. May God continue to bless you, and remember, I am always with you in the work of justice. I look forward to seeing you in worship this Sunday!
