Christian Brothers and Sisters:

Summer is almost over.  For many this is a time for final vacations and preparations for a new schedule for the months of the Fall.   I hope that you have had restful times for reflection and renewal during the days of summer.
 
I hope to see you in worship each week this September.  I will be bringing a series of messages on the subject of the vows of membership we have taken to be members of the United Methodist Church. Each of us has taken a vow to be faithful to Christ through the church. The focus of this faithfulness is expressed in our prayers, our presences, our gifts, our service and our witness.
On September 6 my theme will be "The Power of Persistent Prayer."  This Sunday we will also have a "Blessing of the Backpacks" in our prayer time.  Have your young person / youth bring theirs this Sunday.  You may also bring one that we will give to the school nurse for distribution in our public school.  September 13 will follow with "The Power of Together."   This Sunday we will be putting into practice a new proposal from the people who are part of our prayer chain ministry.  An invitation will be given for people to join the Sunday Prayer Team at the communion railing for silent intercessions. God may be calling you to be part of the Sunday Prayer Team!

I am happy to share with you that Bishop Jane Allen Middleton will be with us on September 20.  She has agreed to take part in this series.  Her message will focus on the vow of offering our service and our witness.   Make a note that she will be with us for conversations and fellowship following this service.   Make plans now to spend some time with her after this service.  

Then on September 27, I will be preaching about "The Power of Giving."  This series will help us focus on the subject of loyalty.  The people of Faxon-Kenmar UMC have been through some trials in the past.  These events are troubling for everyone on many different levels.     Some people have come to their own conclusion that they must leave our fellowship.   Others want to find the way forward and to reaffirm their commitment to this fellowship and to a renewed expression of loyalty to Christ and the church.  I pray that you are one of the later who believe God has a future for us that is expressed in these words:  "The best is yet to be."

In this light, October 4 will be "Loyalty Sunday."  This is a Communion Sunday for us. In addition to the sacrament of the Holy Communion, each person will have the opportunity to visibly express her/his loyalty to Christ and the church on this Sunday.   Listen for the announcements on Sunday, to find out more as this significant day comes closer.  

It is my joy to be among you as your Pastor.   I hope to continue to get to know all of you better and to discover the way God is calling to be in ministry together.