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About six years ago, during a period of transition, the congregation of Larchmont Avenue Church began a process of introspection and reflection. Gathering in small groups and large groups, in the privacy of homes and in bustling church fellowship halls, people gathered to talk about what the church meant to them. And while this was certainly a time to look back with gratitude, even more time was devoted to looking ahead. Grateful for the ways God had worked through them in the past, they sat down to discern where God might be leading them in the years to come.
Through these conversations, a common goal emerged. Again and again, people were expressing appreciation for times when the church community had comforted and supported them in difficult times. This widespread sense of gratitude quickly distilled into a shared conviction: to be, for one another, a place of safety, security, and welcome for as many people as possible. In short, they wanted LAC to be "a haven in times of need."
This calling has been part of the church for as long as there has been a church. It was a virtue that the Apostle Paul impressed upon the missional communities he founded. "Bear one another's burdens," he wrote, "and so fulfill the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2). Throughout Christian history, the provision of shelter, nurture, and mutual care to the children of God has always been a priority for followers of the Good Shepherd, and that is certainly the case at Larchmont Avenue Church.
But don't take my word for it. Just listen to how the people of LAC describe the congregation they are and the church they want to continue to be:
- a place "to deepen our connections to one another..."
- "a faith community in which we are willing to air our human frailties and struggles as easily as we share our joys..."
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"a safe haven where we can find friends and opportunities for spiritual growth..."
- "a place where we feel safe sharing our failures as well as our successes,,,"
- "a community of faith for all."
The life of faith is meant to be a life that is shared. When we are strong, we can help carry others. When we feel weak, others can help to carry us. And when we do, the church is what God always intended it to be: "a haven in times of need."
Blessings and peace,
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