From the Desk of
Pastor Robert
Dear Church Family,
This week I was asked by two congregants, independent of each other, when we would resume singing The Lord’s Prayer in our worship service. It is a treasured and beloved ritual, as we sing the words of prayer taught to us by Jesus Christ. The prayer that we know was translated in the King James version to be pretty much what we recite or sing today. There are other versions, interpreted by other cultures that bring enhanced beauty to the prayer as well. I have come to appreciate them as much as the traditional one we learned through the Bibles we read.
In times of change we like to rely upon the patterns and rituals we have developed from the past. They bring us comfort and familiarity. Covid changed our worship service from an interactive outward celebration of greeting with hugs to a more reserved service of staying in our seats and inward expression of reverence.
Someone recently stated they wanted “things to return to normal.” They wanted the old service and the old traditions. Some of the activities of the past are gone for the foreseeable future. We attempt to create a worship experience that is comfortable and safe for as many people as we can. Some of us hug, some want no physical contact. Some of us wear masks, some do not. Some want to pass the offering plate, some do not want to be put in that position. Each of us are in our own comfort level.
But to me the deeper question remains why can’t we create new traditions that are equally meaningful? Why does the old model hold so much power over our mind? As Truth Students we are given the power and tools to “roll with the changes.” I agree with all who miss the old ways - I miss them, too. Yet, my spiritual connection with my higher power is not disrupted because of a changed worship format. We have the power to open our hearts and minds to new expressions of worship
As we adapt and grow sometimes we realize things we miss, like singing The Lord’s Prayer, can find a new home in the emerging order of service. We omitted it because we initially were not standing when we returned to worship, but we are standing again, it is a song that deserves the reverence of standing when it is sung. We welcome it back.
We look forward to seeing you in our worship experience this Sunday or very soon. Or perhaps you watch us livestream or on YouTube. I know you will come and experience God’s Holy Spirit with an open heart and mind.
Many blessings,
Pastor Robert