Jamie's September 2006 Column

This past summer Martha and I worshiped in a church that had one of the most inclusive congregations I have ever experienced. There were people there of all ages, many different races, cultural backgrounds, family configurations and partnerships. The place was truly multicultural. No one ethnic group seemed to be in the majority. And, in spite of those differences, or perhaps because of them, there was an enormous feeling that they were gathered for a family reunion celebration. During that part of the service we sometimes call "The Passing of the Peace," people greeted each other warmly for a considerable period of time. It almost felt like a mini-coffee hour in the middle of the service. As I looked around and experienced the spirit and diversity of the congregation, the words of the hymn "In Christ there is no East or West, in Christ no South or North; but one community of love through the whole wide earth," came to mind. There have been few occasions when I have experienced diversity in worship so powerfully, and it really felt good!

Now, one of the reasons that church could be so culturally diverse was the fact that it is located a multicultural environment, New York City. The demographics of northeastern Connecticut are all together different. But the vision of being an inclusive community of diverse individuals and families celebrating the love and justice of God is still something I feel passionately about. I remember hearing in my seminary years a truth that is, unfortunately, still true. The most segregated time in the U. S. is still in church on Sunday mornings. There is something about the nature of congregations that excludes differences. But that is not, I believe, what God intends.

I would like our church to be known in our community as a congregation that is open, hospitable, engaged with the world around us and willing to learn from others--a church that strives to be Christ-like, sharing the love of God lavishly near and far. I'd like us to be known as a church that cares for children and youth and goes out of its way to welcome new people; a church that is spiritually vital and alive, a moral beacon in the community with a clear sense that we are working together, able to deal openly with disagreement and conflict, always welcoming new ways of worshiping and doing ministry. I'd like for people to know that we are not a Christian church afraid of difference and diversity, but a people with an hospitable mind and spirit. I believe we are that kind of church, but sometimes we are shy about letting others know that we are that kind of place.

The beginning of a new church year is a great time to throw our doors wide open and say, "Come on in!" There are many ways we can extend that kind of gracious hospitality but it really all boils down to personal relationships. If we don't invite and welcome people personally they are not likely to return. So, I hope you will join me by inviting your friends and family to worship with us starting on Homecoming Sunday, Sept. 10, and welcoming the people God sends our way throughout the coming months.

In God's peace,

Jamie

Homecoming Sunday is September 10th!!