“A Deeper Hope”

As Christmas approaches, as we journey through Advent, we are pursuing the hope that comes into the world through the presence of the Christ.  As a people who claim to be the Body of Christ, and as a church that proclaims in its very name that we are Disciples of Christ, we are called to make that hope as real as we possibly can.

One of the ways that we bring to life the Hope of Christmas—a hope deeper than any that we feel—is through our participation in the wider life of the Church.  In December, we are invited to participate in the Christmas Offering to the Disciples Mission Fund, which benefits the ministries of our regions, including the Tennessee Region.

Regional Ministries serve the church in a number of ways:

  • Assist congregations and leaders in claiming their unique mission and ministry, and provide resources and support.
  • Call, commission and ordain new pastors, and support and equip all pastors for their ministries.
  • Revitalize existing congregations and plan for new congregations.
  • Connect Regional Disciples to give witness to ministries of justice, hope and compassion.
  • Provide camps, conferences and retreats where children and youth find hope and Christ’s love and a community of faith that embraces “everyone.”
  • Make visible the care for all of God’s family through ministries of reconciliation and anti-racism.
  • Call and equip passionate leaders for today’s church.
  • Provide pastoral care for clergy and congregations.

Last Sunday, we welcomed Rev. Beth Dobyns, our interim Regional Minister, to worship.  Our gifts make her insightful guidance possible.  As you consider the ways that you will give during this season, I invite you to contribute to the Christmas Offering.  Envelopes for this offering will be available in worship.

If you have questions about how The Disciples Mission Fund works, I invite you to visit this link, which includes a helpful video: http://www.disciplesmissionfund.org/what-is-dmf/

This week in worship, the inspiring music will continue!  The Chattanooga School for the Arts & Sciences Chamber Strings will join us for worship as we hear one of my favorite stories from the Gospel of Luke—Mary’s visit with Elizabeth in Chapter 1:39-55.  Come and see what we will discover together.

Grateful for you,

Brandon