From the Pastor
From Kristen DelMonte, Director of Youth & Children's Ministry
Have you ever read any of the Berenstain Bear books? They are great books for little children, they cover so many topics and are great discussion starters. I recently read The Berenstain Bears and the Great Pumpkin. It is a cute story about fall and in the opening pages, the two little bears, Brother and Sister, are sad because Halloween has past and Christmas is so far away. “What about Thanksgiving?” asks Mother Bear.
What about Thanksgiving? What do you think about Thanksgiving? What are your Thanksgiving memories and what memories do you imagine will fill your future? In what ways do you connect with God, Jesus or your church on this day?
I find great pride in my church on Thanksgiving. After all, we can trace our church heritage straight to the Pilgrims who were aboard the Mayflower on that voyage in 1620. From the very beginning of this country, our church founders sought to create a world not only for their current church but also looking ahead to future generations. They argued that they could do it together. They bound themselves together in covenant to always walk together on their journey with God.
Today I see our local church doing likewise. We have bound ourselves together in this community we call church. We work together to make things happen. We strive to walk in the presence of God and look to future generations to do the same. Many new and exciting ministries are being formed right before our eyes. Our church is investing in the future by supporting all the dynamic youth and children’s ministries of this church. Our church works hard to create a welcoming environment for visitors. Our church listens to each other and responds with grace. Our church takes action by creating opportunities for people to journey together in mission projects.
We couldn’t do all of this if we were not bound together in covenant. In covenant we strive to create a better world, with God leading the way. I think that is something to be thankful for. Kristen
The first covenant of the First Church of Salem, 1629
WE COVENANT WITH THE LORD TO WALK TOGETHER IN ALL HIS WAYS,
AND ONE WITH ANOTHER, ACCORDING AS HE IS PLEASED
AND DO BIND OURSELVES TO REVEAL HIMSELF UNTO US
IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD, IN HIS BLESSED WORD OF TRUTH
