As summer activities begin to wind down and routines return to somewhat normal, I encourage everyone to look at your religious activities.

It seems we are going to have to make some permanent adjustments in our lives because of Covid restrictions. This does not mean we must stop doing those things that bring us joy and meaning to our lives. One of those things that does this for me is being an active member in my church.

When Covid first showed its ugly face many of us went into isolation, myself included. My family would gather around my laptop every Sunday morning at 10:30 to watch the online service of St. Andrew’s UMC. We would have our coffee or other breakfast items, be in our pajamas, and watch in the comfort and safety of our home.

This was all good because we were still hearing the Gospel lesson and praying the prayers we know so well, but something was missing. We were not in a community of believers on a regular basis. At first it didn’t seem to bother me, but after a couple of months, I felt something was missing in my life. That something I was missing was the love that comes from being an active part of a loving Christian family.

I’m not talking about a loving wife or children, but a loving, caring group of believers in God and those persons in a relationship with Jesus Christ their Savior. There is something about regularly attending church with other people who believe in the same higher power that controls our life and wants the best for us. It adds a certain peace to the rest of what happens in life.

Years ago I thought, “I’m a Christian. I don’t have to go to church each week.” Once I started to attend on a regular basis, I realized there was more to it than just sitting through the service. I found a special joy in the fellowship of other Christians.

If you have realized that something is missing in your life, maybe it’s the fellowship, friendship, and interaction with other Christians.

We are going to have some special activities and services during the coming months. Check out the calendar to see what is happening. We hope you will join us for a time of fellowship and remembrance of what it means to be an active member of a community of believers.

I truly believe regular attendance in a physical church is as important as a daily devotion and prayer life.

In Christ’s Love,

Pastor Steve