Whoever drinks the water that I will give him will never be thirsty. The water that I will give him will become in him a well of life that lasts forever. – John 4:14
In the Bible, wells provide respite for weary travelers, gathering places for locals and, occasionally, a setting for some very interesting conversations!
This summer, the Christian Education, Member Connections, Worship and Mission Ministries are working together to devise a series of summer events for the entire church community that will enliven, educate and entertain. It is our hope that we will create a space that will build connections within our community as well as give us the opportunity to reach others.
When was the last time you gathered with relatives for a family reunion? Are there certain events, particular foods or a special location that are associated with your family’s gatherings that make them memorable? On one side of my family, freezers of homemade ice cream and loads of watermelons were absolute essentials to our summer events. Games of Frisbee, flag football, volleyball or horse shoes are events that some families make into friendly competitions that run through the years. Lakes, campsites, beach cottages, or Grandma’s house may be the location that automatically brings to mind wonderful memories of family joined in celebration of their unique bonds and history.
This summer we at FPC have the opportunity to come together as an entire community of faith for just this type of family gathering. Every member, from the newest baby to the member who deserves the “most candles on a birthday cake” award, is invited and encouraged to participate. Once a month, on Sundays June 10, July 15, August 12 and September 9, the Christian Education, Worship, and Member Connections ministries are combining efforts to create Summer Gathering Events that will bring us together to worship, enjoy fellowship, eat, play games, visit and learn from one another.
Here’s our schedule:
Date |
Scripture |
Theme |
| June 10 |
John 6:1-14 |
Loaves and Fishes Hospitality
Activities & lunch |
| July 15 |
Genesis 7-9 |
Noah and the Ark Promise |
| Aug. 12 |
Luke 5:1-11 |
Catch of Fish Discipleship |
| Sept. 9 |
John 4 |
Woman at the Well Evangelism |
These Biblical texts will form the themes of our worship, our play and our fellowship each month. (Did you catch the common element of “water” in each month’s scripture?) An intergenerational choir will meet at 8:50 a.m. before each of these services to encourage singers of all ages and stages to participate together in worship leadership. After each service, the “marketplace” will offer crafting opportunities; non-competitive games are open to “kids” in any decade; and cool shady spots, complete with a lemonade stand, will be available for those interested in visiting with friends, old and new. In June and July, storytellers Roger Shoup and Liane Measell will engage us in seeing God at work in our lives, while in August we will enjoy an old-fashioned hymn-sing. If you play an instrument and would like to strum (or toot!) along, please contact Beth Corry.
Of course, food is essential to any family reunion, and these FPC summer gatherings are no exception. There will be food aplenty, and lunch is an integral part of each month’s festivities. Finally, in June you certainly will not want to miss a one-of-a-kind opportunity to hit the bulls eye while Pastor Henry Brinton is perched in a dunk tank following the Glebe service. Start practicing your aim now!
As you can see, there will literally be something for everyone, and our church family reunion won’t be complete without you! You’re also encouraged to bring a friend; our family would love to extend a warm welcome to any new “cousins” who come along!
So, mark these dates on your calendar and make plans to be here. We’re looking forward to gathering with you for these memorable summer events.
Please plan on coming and inviting a friend or two!
   
Also, please note that these activities will replace the traditional Vacation Bible School that we have usually offered for the kids during the week. |
