Unity in Christ

Red Run News -- January 23, 2011

Temperatures were in the single digits on this frigid Sunday morning. Ellen Martin played the prelude music, including the tender song "Jesus, I Come." Indeed this is the attitude of our hearts as we gather together. Bob Sauder led us in hymns of trust in God "God will take care of you." We also sang songs related to the unity of the church.

Ken Sensenig led the Children's Time which then flowed into the message theme of finding unity in the midst of our differing understandings (1 Corinthians 1:10-18). Drawing on his experience with Mennonite Central Committee, Eastern Mennonite Missions, and the Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society, Ken explained some of the different perspectives of vision and purpose that emerge. Yet we must always ask, How can we work together as members of the body of Jesus Christ? In humility, we can acknowledge that our understanding is incomplete. We can pursue peace. We can move forward together in the expectation of God's perfect kingdom.

We prayed for Anna Mary Musser who is in the Ephrata Hospital. We also prayed for the nation of Sudan and the vote on whether the north and south will separate into two nations.

We acknowledge the passing of Annie Stauffer, mother of Glenn Stauffer. Glenn, Julie, Melanie, and Erika returned to Pennsylvania from their home in Montana for this funeral.

Ready Runners will meet at the church on Wednesday, January 26, at 6:30 p.m.

Glory to God!

Red Run News -- January 9, 2011

Ellen Martin played the prelude and offering music. Bob Sauder led us in the opening hymns about God's guidance as we are in a new year. Bob Sauder, Randy Hostetter, Letitia Weaver and Glenda Lafferty led us in praising God -- "He Is Jehovah," "Wonderful, Merciful Savior," and "How Deep the Father's Love."

In the message, pastor Carl used an outline from The Purpose-Driven Life by Rick Warren. We give glory to God as we worship God, as we love each other, as we grow more and more like Jesus, as we exercise the gifts God has given to us and as we tell others the good news of Jesus. We remembered in prayer those who are sick.

On January 2, Pastor Kevin brought a message from the account of the wise men. We also are wise when we give priority to sharing the good news, when we participate in what God is bringing to us, and when we watch for the coming again of the Lord Jesus. In the children's time, Tina told about a missionary family in Chile.

On Sunday, January 16, we will have a combined adult Sunday School class. A fellowship meal will follow the church service.