Leap of Faith January 2017

Welcome to 2017!

The first gospel reading of the New Year on January 1, 2017 was about Joseph and how he courageously followed what the Angel of the Lord told him; moving his young family multiple times and protecting the baby Jesus from the terror of King Herod.  Many times, Joseph listened to the Angel of the Lord and took action -- he took that next Leap of Faith. 

To connect with Joseph and give oomph to our own faith in this New Year – enter a video clip from American Ninja Warrior!  What was great about using this clip is how folks began to root for the contestant – his strength, speed, agility, and leap after leap after leap to make it through the course in time to slam the buzzer to stop the clock!

Spirit of Grace – we have been taking leap after leap after leap of faith in many ways including the sale of the South Campus property.  We are poised now for the next Leap of Faith into 2017 that was an integral part of the congregation’s discussion, vote & sale of the South Campus:  a capital appeal.  More than identifying the need for a capital appeal for furnishing the new facility and renovating the North Campus, including the roof – it’s about identifying that God is calling Spirit of Grace forward to be a grace place for people to grow closer to God & one another; to be a grace place in the community.

Together with the council, a plan for the capital appeal is coming together.  Keep reading the newsletter for info and opportunities to take that next Leap of Faith at SoG in 2017.

Happy New Year! See you in Worship,

Pr. Rita Gardner Tweed, Lead Pastor

Installation of Pastor Rita Gardner Tweed

Dear Spirit of Grace Church Family,

What a delightful moment it was to be on the phone with you (thank you, Call Chair Sharon Burke) when the results of your ‘Vote to Call’ me as your pastor was read out loud!  107 yes, 5 no and 1 abstain is a healthy vote plus a sure and certain vote of affirmation and confidence in our relationship together as pastor and people of Spirit of Grace.  Returning the next weekend to worship with you was also a great joy – I’m grateful for our mutual enthusiasm – a joyful congregation is a wonderful thing & a blessing from God!  The climate here has a fresh spirit blowing through it to be wind under our wings for incredible ministry that’s ahead.

The transition time has positioned us well to be used by God in new ways:  we have been faithful & diligent, addressed challenges, been financially transparent & good stewards, been open in sharing what’s working and what’s not; the resulting blessings & momentum are evident. 

The planning process is now underway for my installation that officially brings us together as pastor & people at Spirit of Grace - - please jot down in your calendars to attend on Reformation Sunday, October 30 at 4:00pm, North Campus.  Installation to be followed by a festive church family potluck!

See You in Worship,

Transition Lead Pastor,

Pr. Rita Gardner Tweed