Megan and Pastor Brian McClinton

Message from the Pastor

Grace and Peace be to you from Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

A few years ago, I was at an evangelism workshop and the presenter addressed how a particular sanctuary should appear in order to attract new people to the church. "The first thing you need to do is get rid of all of the symbols in and around your church. No crosses or fish symbols because new people do not kpow what they mean and it will only become a distraction." Some at the conference debated whether or, not there could be opportunities of education rather than removing these important symbols of the church. I debated that I have noticed people search for these symbols especially during important times in their life.

My case in point was a non-member wedding I did a few years ago. The couple attended a large independent congregation in the area. "But we don't want to get married there" the bride suggested. 'Why" I asked. 'Well we decided that when we got married we wanted to get married in a more tradition setting like our parents, with crosses and altars. We want to get married in the place that looks like a church." I was not bold enough at the time to exclaim "Well, if it doesn't look like a church, are you going to church." It was only until later in our pre-marital sessions did I address that concern.

I do think as a society we have gone away from the importance of tradition and symbols. But, this does not mean that they are not important. It does not mean that the crosses, candles and banners cannot help us in our spiritual growth.. Enclosed in our newsletter is a brochure I have put together talking about the symbols found in our sanctuary. Next time you are in church, come a little early and look around and see. Pray on the meanings of these symbols and how they address our faith. We may be surprised on some of their meanings.

What I have learned through that workshop is that we do not need to take away our symbols. They are still relevant to our faith today. They can strengthen our resolve and faith in the One who has died so we may have ever lasting life; Jesus Christ. These symbols can be tools and talking points to talk to people who need to know the Lord in a world to which we see symbols that display fear and hatred. These old symbols can revitalize our faith and start a new beginning in our life with Christ.

What can be the new beginning in your life today? Could it be a new start of prayer and meditation? Is it a bold move to reach out to co-worker or classmates who are not very kind to us? The challenge knowing of our risen Lord is realizing the challenge for a new beginning. The life, death and resurrection of Jesus have given us new life. Let us rejoice and tell the world to come and be a part of the Love of God. .

Peace, Pastor Brian