This is an exciting time at CLC. I am in the midst of planning for our annual Trunk or Treat. We are going to welcome our neighborhood to a safe and fun experience, and all are invited! This is one of our largest community outreach events of the year. We try to make sure everyone feels welcome whether they are connected to our church or not. I love meeting all kinds of new kids who want to laugh, talk about their day, or just brag about a costume. Trunk or Treat offers the opportunity to let people be loved just as they are. We don't care if you've ever come to church before. We want you to feel loved and accepted here.
I think it is so important to have safe spaces for people to find a community. Unfortunately many people have negative experiences with the church. Instead of feeling welcomed, they tend to feel judgment. I believe our church stands for something different. You can come in costume. You can come for candy. You can bring your family or friends. All are welcome. We want people to feel blessed and loved. No strings attached!
This weekend we are also celebrating the Reformation. This celebration remembers a time 500 years ago when Martin Luther decided to ask some serious questions of the church. Judgement in the church is nothing new. We can go all the way back to the time of Jesus and we find people trying to push others out. Instead of lifting others up, the journey of faith becomes a just another way for people to tear each other down.
As I look forward to Reformation, I am excited to see what the Holy Spirit is going to do. We are called to let go of our judgments and transform lives with grace. This is the path that Jesus was leading us on from the beginning. We don't need to hurt one another to prove anything. We believe in a God who loves us and that's all that is needed. Let's live inspired by this kind of grace!
Blessings,
Pastor Brian
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