Well, It’s that time of year. It’s time for APC to talk about and give some emphasis to our giving. This year’s Commitment Team has been working hard to share with you some ministry celebrations, needs and goals as we prepare to conclude our work for 2020 and begin a New Year together as a Christ-centered family committed to worship, spiritual growth and sharing God’s love. These are challenging and unprecedented times. Success will require God’s mercy and full participation from all of us.
For this year’s theme we chose “Connect to APC.” In my lifetime there has never been a more important time than this to connect to God and faith, to congregation and ministry. Our routine and normal ways of operating have been disrupted by the pandemic. We have had to learn how to carry on God’s work in bold and innovative ways. We are being church—worshiping, growing, learning and serving others—in new ways. We are doing all we can to “remain” or “abide” in Christ and stay connected to Christ’s church.
When Jesus invited his disciples to abide in him he was preparing them to face the disruption and dislocation that his crucifixion would bring. He assured them that even as he “went away” he would remain with them by the Spirit. The challenge they faced is the challenge we face today—to remain, abide and dwell in Christ when some of our typical, comfortable and routine ways of doing so are no longer available to us. Still, we abide!
Next week you’ll receive a mailing from our Commitment Team inviting you to connect (or “stay connected!” or maybe “re-connect”) with the church family in its worship and work. Why? The answer is clear. For Jesus said, “apart from me you can do nothing. But abide in me and you will bear much fruit.”
I look forward to sharing with you our 2021 ministry plans and helping each of you find meaningful ways to abide in Christ and connect with APC as we move ahead in ministry together. I ask that you prayerfully consider how God is calling you to give of all that you have to strengthen our common work and extend the love of Christ to a world in need.
