Family

“So then, whenever we have an opportunity,

let us work for the good of all and especially for those of the family of faith.”

Galatians 6:10

When I was 19, my great grandmother had her 100th birthday. We were a big extended family and we had an enormous party to celebrate and Grandma had a wonderful time. Today is her birthday and I continue to remember her and to give thanks for the many good times that we had (excluding the caraway seed cake that she always served, which I thought was awful). I visited her frequently, learned much from her, knew I was loved by her and felt supported by her.

Family is traditionally described as all the descendants of a common ancestor. How would you define family? Yes, it is descendants of a common ancestor, but we so frequently talk about extended family and, in that, I would include the church community. We hear many times that we are children of God.

A church family is a community of people that attend church together. In our recent Ministry Fair, it was great to see all the offerings that are available at St Martin’s, the interest from Parishioners, and the excitement of being with others who share our values. Our Church Family shares in the fullness of faith and life together. We are a family of believers. We provide support to each other. We give and we receive.

We give by providing encouragement, volunteering, attending a Bible study class and praying with our neighbor. We receive by being present and accepting conversation with others. Being part of a church family gives us a sense of purpose and fulfilment. And if you are physically unable to be with us then we will come to you.

The church is God's household and we are members of God's family.