Church news: January

We believe that the purpose of a congregation, beyond worshiping God, is to be a loving, helpful, welcoming place of good will for all (regardless of gender, age, race, sexual orientation, religious history, or lack thereof).

We strive for the inclusivity that Jesus taught. We also want a community that is free from violence and the threat of violence, both in word and deed. The congregation is a safe place for all. 

In light of this vision, we’ve been structuring our worship in the following way:

First Sunday: The worship committee designed Service of the Word, which is led by congregation members and a lay speaker.

Second Sunday: Liturgical worship with communion with Father Martin Pommerenke.

Third Sunday: Interfaith service of the word with Interfaith readings, concepts, and themes with Reverend Bev Mar. Currently, this is more of an interfaith-friendly service, but in the year to come it will include occasional speakers from other belief systems and spiritual practices.

Fourth Sunday: Traditional liturgical worship and communion with Pastor Jean Barrington.

Fifth Sunday: Jazz Vespers, which is hosted by Lucy Williams. 

And we also asked our congregation members what they would like to see this year, and here are some of their replies: 

• Correcting and updating gendered words in the services.
• Working to bring young people and their parents back to church and restoring the Summer Youth Music Camp, which brings vitality to the church and enriches all our lives.
• Reviving the “pop-up” fundraisers, such as serving hotdogs and strawberry shortcakes in the garden to help us meet our neighbors. 
• Hosting more concerts for the community.
• Continuing our community outreach with charitable organizations, such as Point Roberts Circle of Care and others. 
• Inviting our friends and neighbors to enjoy our services.
• Hosting speakers on various subjects, including spiritual topics like meditation and breathwork.  
• Hosting a sound bath during the warmer weather. 
• Inviting Bishop Shelly Wee to visit us again.
• Completing the restoration on the church.

We invite you to join us every Sunday or on the Sunday that speaks to your spirituality, as we all learn ways to be closer in our relationships with God and each other. Worship begins at 11 a.m. at 1880 APA Road. This is God’s church and there is a place for you here!