Hi First Presbyterian,

Some of my favorite things to celebrate in the church are baptisms and welcoming new members. Both are evidence and reminders that the Holy Spirit is at work. To some extent, the pandemic has interrupted our celebration of these ceremonies. Recently, however, we’ve celebrated some baptisms, and I’m excited to announce that I’ll be leading a new members class this Fall. This three-session class is required for anyone who wants to become a member of the congregation; however, anyone who wants to learn more about the current vision of the church is welcome to attend the class, too. The class will be offered at 11:30 am following the worship services on September 19, 26, and October 3. The class on September 19 will answer the question: “What does it mean to be a Presbyterian?” The classes on September 26 and October 3 will cover topics related to what our church is up to right now. In these final two classes, we’ll discuss the vision for ministry of our church leadership, the ways our various groups and programs help to live out that vision, and the opportunities for each us to get more involved. If you want to become a member or if you are interested in attending the classes, please let me know!

Whether we are welcoming people into our membership through publicly professing their faith for the first time or through reaffirming the faith they have already publicly professed, membership in the congregation is all about faith in Christ. To be a member of the church, a person professes to trust in God’s mercy, to turn from sin and renounce evil, to trust in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, to commit to live in obedience to Jesus, and to devote themselves to the life of the church. That is a reason to celebrate!

Friends, Jesus is worth loving and obeying. I pray you know that to be true today and every day.

Peace to you,

Pastor Neff