From the Pastor

Current Message

As I begin to write this, it is early on the Sunday morning when we will officially break ground for our building expansion. I am alone in the building for now, but that will soon change, as the space will fill quickly with all of you as you come to worship and to join in the day’s activities.

Soon it will be obvious to anyone who drives by that something is going on here at Holy Redeemer. Our physical efforts at "growing to and for Christ" will be very visible, as trucks and trailers move in, as ground is graded, and as new walls begin to go up and old walls begin to come down. I hope that peoples’ curiosity is aroused, and I hope that those who may be looking for a church home find their way here as they see our building’s growth.

For us, I would encourage us to use this time of obvious building growth as an opportunity for spiritual growth, both as a congregation and as individuals. "Growing to and for Christ" is about much more than the building. It is about our ongoing, intentional efforts to grow as disciples of Jesus Christ—as people who seek to know him and to make him known, here in the building and beyond.

Growth in discipleship starts here, as we gather as a family of faith to hear the Word, share the Supper, and join in fellowship in the name of Christ. Worship is one venue we have for growth. Bible studies, adult forums, and other groups are other ways to deepen our faith and grow in discipleship.

I would encourage you to think about how you might stretch and grow as a follower of Jesus during this time of our building expansion. I have some suggestions: Make it a priority to be a regular worshipper … join the Adult Class … join a Bible Study (or make a suggestion for a new one) … be more intentional about your personal daily devotions … visit here on Committee Night to see where your skills and interests might intersect with Holy Redeemer’s call to grow and spread the Gospel … join the Parenting Group … join the choir. These are all ways to grow in faith, service, and discipleship, and they are all a part of what will make our congregation grow, as we all become more and more excited about what God is doing here and how we can share that with others.

If each one of us makes a commitment to grow in our personal lives of faith and discipleship, the effect will spill over into the congregation. Our growth and enthusiasm will be as obvious as the new walls of our building, and together we will continue to grow to and for Christ.

I am not alone in the church anymore. Harold Miller just came in, carrying the building plans that will be on display throughout the process. Susan is rehearsing with some musicians in the nave. Kelly Moritz is re-filling the worship activity bags for the children. I hear one car door after another closing in the parking lot. I hear conversations outside my window as you begin to gather to worship and to join in the day’s activities…

Let the growth begin—around our building and within ourselves!

In Christ,
Pastor Brenda

An addendum… As you know, construction has been delayed. However, all of the above is still applicable. Even as we wait, we can and should be intentional about our growth. - PB