As we plan a “Membership Sunday” for our church, I wanted to reflect on what this means. I don’t really like the word “Membership” because it brings to mind a club of some kind. That is why I am calling it “Covenant Partners” I hope this doesn’t confuse anyone. A partnership shows the relationship of working together in a way that membership does not. A member brings to mind some separation or special status that I do not think is healthy for any congregations. We are all part of the body of Christ, equally. It is always important to keep this first and foremost in our relationship.
Membership Sunday is part of our moving to stand on our own as a congregation. No one has to be a member to participate in any of our ministries. Membership will be a covenantal partnership between individuals and the community. This partnership will be a promise to share your gifts and talents with the community, attend worship regularly, be part of a group that helps you grow in your faith and participate in outreach to a hurting world. It will help us plan and measure our progress towards being a chartered church congregation. It is simply a reflection of your desire to be committed to this particular community and it’s values. I hope that you will desire to be in covenantal relationship with each other and with God in this way. It is an outward sign of an inward commitment. A partnership shows the relationship of working together in a way that membership does not. The word “Covenant” holds this partnership in relationship. It is a reflection of the promises God has made with his people as read in the scriptures. We promise to work together to share God’s grace with everyone, grow in love with God and neighbor and offer hope to the world.
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