From September 2012 Newsletter
Pressing On for the Prize
The Apostle Paul wrote to the church in Philippi with a passion that sought to set the congregation on fire. He counted all of his achievements as nothing compared to that of knowing Jesus Christ. And he made it his life’s goal to know Christ more deeply and to reflect Christ’s love more abundantly. This is how he put it, “Not that I have already obtained this or have already reached the goal; but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Beloved, I do not consider that I have made it my own; but this one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on towards the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:12-14)
Over this last year, the Vision Task Force has taken on the task of articulating a vision and setting goals for First UMC of Brighton. The group has studied the demographics of this church and the context of our community. They have asked the congregation for input through an invitation to describe our church’s ministry for the next five years. Through that work, the group has created a draft of a Vision Statement.
In the last few months, task force members have met with different groups in the church about the vision statement and goals for the church’s ministry. Results of those meetings will soon be available.
I am inspired by the passion at the center of these discussions. The members of this church, like Paul, have a desire that congregation members and this church press on toward the goal of knowing Christ and reflecting him in what we do. The majority of our suggested goals center on spiritual growth for all ages and service to the community and the world.
As we continue toward setting goals for the years ahead, I trust that the passion to know and follow Christ will fuel our transforming ministry and mission.
Blessings,
Pastor Sherry
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