Welcome to the In-Between
The disciples faced a crisis. They had shared the joy of knowing Jesus personally and of witnessing his works of grace and mercy. They had also heard him speak of what was to come. Now he was gone. What would they do? They were in the great “in-between” Jesus’ presence on earth. Should they just wait for his return, reliving the glory of the past? Fortunately the answer was no! At Pentecost the Holy Spirit filled them and enabled them to become the church: the community of believers and body of Christ in the world in the present age.
Community United Methodist Church of Huntington Beach is at an in-between time: We have vacated our beloved worship space, so full of memories and are enjoying our wilderness time in Moore Hall. We have shared the vision of what will be, and have seen the plans and weekly progress. We know that we will be in the renewed space in the new year. This update will allow us to engage the greater community in ministry in new ways.
What Then Shall We Do?
Ministry has not been put on hold. We have experienced new vitality in our worship and in our times of fellowship, study and service. In this in-between time we are starting two new initiatives for worship! “Upside-Down” is our Fourth-Saturday gathering, designed to be nothing like your grandparents’ worship service and develop community with those looking for something new. “Engage” is our First-Saturday time of service, offering our neighbors opportunities to connect with and serve their neighbors.
Our Stewardship Campaign
We are confident that the Holy Spirit is guiding our vision for the future. We invite you to participate in our “2020 Vision” as we prepare for a renewed church and community. Over the next few weeks we will share the vision you have shared with us; we will share stories of what Community means in the life of our members and friends; we will present a proposed budget for the coming year; and we will invite you to step out in faith and support Community with your prayers, your presence, your witness, your service and your gifts.
In The Mean Time
Please continue to support the current budget of the church. Some of you were hesitant to give, or to fully support apportionment giving because of what is happening in our denomination. I am very happy to share with you that our Annual Conference has created two alternative funds for giving beyond the local church that will provide funding to ministries which “do no harm.” In this way we can be cheerful givers, secure in the knowledge that our gifts extend the love and welcome of God around the world and here at home. Even as you prepare for your 2020 giving, I encourage you to consider increasing your 2019 giving or to participate in our special apportionment drive.
Yours in the service of Christ,
George Hooper, Pastor
