Opening Doors Begins

This Sunday opened a new chapter in the history of our young but effective church 'on the way'- as we officially began our Opening Doors Capital Campaign to raise 7.5 million dollars for needed remodeling, expanded education, and the construction of a permanent worship facility. Yes, in the midst of what some have called, 'difficult days,' we are asking membership for a renewed commitment to the work, ministry and mission of this church. The congregation once called 'the church without walls' now asks the same to expand its walls, and open its heart so that more may come in.

Of course I am grateful for the leadership of our Board of Trustees, and particularly for the leadership of Board Member, Ronelle Ianace, who has accepted the helm of our campaign. She brings experience and excellent skills to this task, as well as a unique blend of community and volunteer involvement perfectly suiting her to the objectives of this formidable role. This, combined with Ronelle and Pete's love for Jesus Christ and their commitment to our church, make for a refreshing blend of calling and 'Spirit-led' leadership. This past Sunday she charged us - a host of 50 volunteer leaders plus staff - by calling us to our posts. When prayer time came you could sense the very arms of God enveloping our church. It was a wonderful moment.

As your pastor I am pleased with our goal, but do sense that the real blessing will not be in the money that is raised or in any buildings that are built. Instead, I see a blessing that will come from a church determining to do more. A church determining to reach out, and to do so together. Many of us are involved in a myriad of other affairs and even ministry - to the point of taking what God does here for granted. Yet, because of the vision of our founding families, who built not for themselves but for those yet to come, everyday something spectacular occurs right here. And how often have we heard some say, "we yearn for revival and want unity for our church," while all the while God knows this is not the real desire of our hearts? Well... this is our chance! When this church was young it accomplished great things for God by working together - and - going forward I can assure you the formula has not nor will not change.

So pray for Opening Doors! Pray for your own participation. Get behind this effort and say yes to leadership, when asked. This is your opportunity to see God move on the Parkway, not as a spectator, but as a participant. May the first door open be the door of your heart. For this is not a 'build it and they will come,' nor an 'improve it for us and we will give' campaign - but - an opening of the heart of every member of this church. When this has occurred we will see an...

Opening of Doors, indeed!

Pastor Sam