Beyond the Pulpit 8.9.26
I met with our Congregational Care Co-Coordinators (John Rowlingson and Kay Carbaugh) as we continue expanding opportunities for laity visitation and care. Come learn more about this ministry and others at our Ministry Fair next Sunday, August 16, at 10AM, where you can also get your photos updated for our online directory, look for new places to live out your faith, and of course reconnect with folks you haven’t seen over the summer with plenty of food and fellowship.
In Charlottesville, I joined Bob Law for an IMPACT Board Meeting to plan how Crozet UMC will engage in local justice efforts, alongside the 30 other faith communities connected to this organization. Watch for our upcoming House Meeting schedule, where you’ll have an opportunity to share where you see the need for justice in our community. If you’re already part of our Crozet Network, I’m proud to share that we are nearly at our financial goal for this year! If you’d like to join the effort, you may do so here.
As the new Chair for the UVA Wesley Foundation Board, I also led our “back-to-school” Board meeting, hearing from students about plans for the coming year and discussing fundraising for an endowment to provide long-term support for campus ministers whose Conference salary support was significantly cut because of the funds lost due to disaffiliation.
I was grateful for opportunities to offer pastoral care to members of our church family, while working with our Hospitality Coordinators to prepare for our upcoming Crozet Community Picnic at Crozet Park this coming Saturday, August 15, 4-6pm.
And on a personal note, the Turner household is attempting to become empty nesters…again! Our oldest is back for senior year at Emory & Henry University, and on Friday we moved our youngest into his first apartment in Richmond. Following his passion for art, he is transferring from Randolph-Macon College to VCUarts as a sophomore. We’re excited for this next chapter for both of our kids!
Most of all, I hope to see you this morning as we begin our new series, Both/And, exploring what it means to live a full and robust faith that refuses to fit neatly into either/or categories. And don’t forget your backpacks and school bags….Today is the Blessing of the Backpacks as we prepare for the 1st Day of School!
Grace & Peace,
