Skip to main content

Hopeful Story, October 5, 2014

  Seven people showed up for my New Members class this week. That was exciting; it was also a happy relief. Every fall I worry and wonder if anyone will show up. Then when they do, it’s just so great.
  Demographically, the current participants run the gamut from young to older, male to female, single, married and married again, mature Christian, brand new believer and seeker. I love that kind of diversity and I anticipate that our discussions will be very interesting. I will not be able to assume anything and that will make for exciting times as we make room for each other at the table.
  For whom is the New Members class intended, actually? Let me share the reasons that my new students shared with me last week. A high school student wants to publicly profess his faith in Jesus before heading off to University next year. A new mom is preparing for the baptisms of her child and herself. A couple coming to us from a community church where they “got saved” more than a decade ago is exploring membership at Hope Fellowship. One woman has felt God working in her life and wants to explore the Christian faith and learn more about what it means to follow Jesus. And then there’s a couple who have been members at Hope Fellowship for years, but never ever taken an actual membership class, something they've always wanted to experience.
  Today I’m already thinking ahead to the joyful Stand Up Sunday scheduled for May 31, 2015. That’s when, the Lord willing, we will hear the testimonies and witness the adult baptisms of those who took one of the New Members classes that will be offered in the Fall, Winter and Spring. If you have felt the Holy Spirit’s prompting to stand up Jesus and become a member of this local expression of Christ’s body, please register for one of these three sessions. If possible, the eight of us (including me) would love to have you join us on Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the room behind the water feature.
- Pastor Peter

Comments