The Oasis - August 11, 2021
Author: Rev. Eric Dupee
August 11, 2021
The Oasis
August 11, 2021
Did you take a Church Membership class, here at First Parish Church, and never actually become a member? Have you been attending First Parish Church for some time and wondered when you would be invited to officially join? How would you like to join with me? On Sunday, August 22, I will be received into membership during the worship service. If you are not yet a member, I invite you to consider becoming a member with me.
When you join a UCC church, you become a voting member of the church. Members vote on the church budget each year, they vote on which of the members should serve as key leaders, and they vote on whether or not to call a new pastor. That last one is a vote I hope you won’t be asked to make for many years.
There are many practical issues associated with church membership. However, joining a church is much more than that. It’s about a deep connection with a community seeking to follow in the way of Jesus Christ. In the ritual of receiving people into membership, the new member and the gathered congregation exchange covenant promises. In church membership, we bind ourselves to one another in order to serve God and our world.
On August 22, I will stand before those gathered for worship and those watching via livestream. I will affirm my beliefs and I will promise to be a faithful member of this church. I’d prefer not to do all this alone. If you are ready to enter into membership at First Parish, I hope you will join me. If you’ve been thinking about it and want more information, please contact me. I’d be glad to meet with you and answer any questions you have.
Blessings,
Eric
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