From the Pastor

October 2009

Recently, a young child who was visiting Holy Redeemer was upset that she did not receive Communion. Several of you heard her at the rail as she said, "I want some!" and as she walked back by me to go back to her seat, she looked and me and said, "She didn’t share!"

It is always difficult when very small children want to receive the meal but are younger than our 3rd grade standard. I always try to talk to them about this after worship to explain the situation. As you know, if parents believe their child is ready before the 3rd grade, we are open to beginning the practice early.

I was struck by her comment about sharing. She has clearly been taught that we should share things—especially good things like food—with those around us. Good advice, especially at worship and in the church building. In a way, the Church is all about sharing.

We are called to share the Good News of God in Jesus Christ. We are called to share of our many gifts—our time and talents, and our money—so that God’s love may be made known. We are called to share fellowship with one another in the name of Christ.

I feel blessed to be a part of this congregation that shares. We share time and fellowship with one another. We share our resources with the community and the larger Church. We share our building with outside organizations. We share each others’ joys and concerns. We share the love of God ... in many ways. I feel blessed to be a part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Our denomination shares the Good News in many ways, as well. We share through world hunger efforts, through missionary efforts, and through attempts to see that justice is done in the world. The ELCA shares the love of God … in many ways.

However we feel about recent decisions made at the ELCA Churchwide Assembly, we still share belief in the lordship of Jesus Christ. How we as a denomination and as a congregation respond to these decisions and to those on either "side" of the debate will go a long way toward showing the world how Christians can share love and compassion with one another … even when we disagree.

As we continue Holy Redeemer’s discussion about these issues (begun long ago with the Journeying Together Faithfully studies on sexuality), and as the ELCA continues conversation and begins to determine the potential practical outcomes of these decisions, I pray that the commandment to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, and mind and to love our neighbors as ourselves and a focus on the fruits of the Spirit (love, patience, kindness, gentleness), will guide and shape those conversations.

If you were unable to join us for the discussion on 20 and 27 September and have questions or concerns, feel free to contact me.

In Christ,
Pastor Brenda