“We are all called into the church of Jesus Christ by baptism, and marked as Christ’s own by the Holy Spirit. This is our common calling, to be disciples and servants of our servant Lord. Within the community of the church, some are called to particular service as deacons and as elders. Ordination is Christ’s gift to the church, assuring that his ministry continues among us, providing for ministries of caring and compassion in the world, ordering the governance of the church, and preaching the Word and administering the sacraments.”
– from the service for ordination of church officers

On January 12, we will come together in worship to lift up those whom God has called to be the leaders for Deep Run for the next few years. It is a time of celebration as we look forward to the ways that God is calling us to share the good news of Jesus Christ. Sometimes, we feel that only church officers are called to this work, but all believers are called to not just follow God, but to help God’s kingdom be realized – ‘on earth as it is in heaven.” This year, all the gifts of every member of the Presbyterian Church of Deep Run will be needed to help us move forward. We are called to expand our evangelism and outreach. We are called to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to grow in their Christian faith though education and fellowship for all ages. We are called to greater avenues of service as we seek to minister to God’s children here and around the world. We are called to be good stewards of the wonderful church facility we have at Deep Run and to make sure it is here for the generations that follow us. We are called to support this work with our time, our talents and our financial gifts.

This is not just the work of the Session and Deacons. Every committee has taken an in-depth look at how God is calling them to move forward. An updated strategic plan for the church will be part of the annual report. There are many opportunities for all to become involved. We are called to the greater vision God has for us. Ask God how He is calling you at this place and time to be, “a disciple and servant of our servant Lord.” We cannot do the work that God calls us to do without the deep commitment of so many members. During January and February we will be lifting up the members of our committees during worship so we can recognize their contributions. We are all blessed by their hard work.

“There are varieties of gifts, but it is the same Spirit who gives them. There are different ways of serving God, but it is the same Lord who is served. God works through each person in a unique way, but it is God’s purpose that is accomplished.”
– 1 Corinthians 12:4-7

Yours in Christ,
Pastor Elizabeth