Rector’s Update: quick (but significant) hits
Dear Restoration,
I have been thinking so much this week about that question from my sermon last Sunday: ‘What would it be like to live as a led person?’ In our readings this week for the Daily Office, we read Psalm 37. There were 4 verbs that jumped off the page to me as I imagined living as a led person: delight, commit, trust, wait. ‘Delight yourself in the Lord…’ This is where it all begins. As we delight in Him, we are open to being led by Him. I have been praying consistently for my delight to grow… because I want to live as a led person. May your delight flourish as well.
Ok, just because these are ‘quick hits’ does not make them insignificant. Make sure you get to the end!
Alpha kicks off on September 23. Alpha is a multi-week course that creates a space where people come to discuss life’s big questions. Everyone should have the chance to explore faith, ask questions, and share their story. Come enjoy dinner, film, and discussion. You can sign up, here.
I want to extend 2 invitations to sign up for Alpha:
1. If you are new to Restoration and wanting to experience a small group for the first time, this would be a great place to start. And feel free to bring a friend!
2. If you know someone who has experienced life change or hurt or disappointment… you have an opportunity to invite them to discuss the questions they are pondering in a setting where others are trying to figure stuff out as well. Would you make a point to ask if they would like to try Alpha? Don’t assume they will say no. Imagine if they said yes…
If you are open to it at all, sign up and show up on 9/23. If it’s not your jam, you do not have to come back. Promise.
I love that we are offering a hospitable space to discuss these things. I love the team that has come together to make Alpha happen. They are waiting to welcome… you! And your friend!
Restoration offers opportunities for Spiritual Direction. Great! What is it?
Spiritual Direction is learning to listen to God, to learn from Him, and to receive His guiding ways in your life. It is a tool for living as a led person.
Whether you are in the midst of a personal crisis, a season of transition, a moment of stagnation, or even a period of smooth sailing, spiritual direction can be especially helpful for drawing near to the Lord and allowing Him to direct your path. You can read more about it, here. It includes a link to sign up for a session. Try it! See how God uses it.
Restoration is hiring!
We are seeking two full-time positions: a Kids’ Small Group Coordinator who would work closely with our Director of Kids’ Small Groups, Louise Brooks and an Operations Coordinator who would work closely with our Executive Director, Kat Downs. You can find out more about the hiring process and the positions, here. We are also hiring paid, hourly staff for our Sunday morning Nursery Kids’ Small Groups. If you or someone you know would like to care for some of the most delightful 2 and unders on the planet… send us an email.
Guess what? People who read this update are some of our BEST recruiters. If you know someone who is looking to join a great team and has skills that might fit well with these opportunities, would you please send them this link? We would love to meet them. Thanks!
Our Bishop, John Guernsey, has called for the Diocese to begin the process leading to the election and consecration of his successor and to his retirement. All of the clergy of the diocese were gathered together this week when he shared this news. Bishop John received a standing ovation. He is a beloved shepherd who has led us so faithfully over the last decade. I encourage you to take a few minutes to watch the video of his announcement and I invite you to sign up to receive updates on the bishop search. Our bishop is such an important part of our church and the search for Bishop John’s successor deserves our regular and concerted prayer. You will hear our intercessions for the process in our weekly Prayers of the People.
The promise of the Gospel is that we are not just saved as individuals, we are delivered into a community that is seeking to be faithful to Christ: the church. We live as led people, together. I take great delight that I get to be led by Him alongside of you.
See you on Sunday,
David
