A Word from Pastor Nathan

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Dear Friends:

Exciting things are happening at Washington Avenue Christian Church. In the past year, we:

  • Experienced the successful transition of senior pastor.
  • Welcomed new members in worship and fellowship.
  • Enjoyed music that is energetic and true to our roots as a Christian people.
  • Created a new website and social media accounts.

Well done, good and faithful church. We’ve had a banner year.

This summer, our experiment with a single service at 9:30 a.m. saw increased attendance, energy, and enthusiasm. Worshiping together as one church, one body has been inspiring!

Our early August survey helped us understand your worship experience and preferences. We appreciate your thoughtful participation and excellent response—more than 80 surveys were returned. The Elders and Board discussed the results and listened to your concerns, hopes, and dreams. On Sunday, the Board approved continuing the 9:30 a.m. worship service. I look forward to worshipping with you. Our shared time is always the highlight of my week.

Moving to one service also liberates resources for us to consider what’s next. Many have suggested a new, radically different worship service that would meet in the evenings. The Elders and I will be dreaming and scheming with the Spirit of God about this effort.

We’re also excited to re-imagine Sunday school. Following our 9:30 a.m. worship service, we’ll have Sunday school that begins at 10:45 a.m., but we’re also going to expand discipleship formation to other days of the week, including Bible, Burger, and Beer. Stay tuned to The Spire and visit our Facebook page and website for more information.

Mainline Christianity exists on a rapidly-shifting landscape. I cannot predict the future with certainty, but I know God’s spirit is with us, leading us on the way. As we travel this journey with each other and with Jesus, I think we’ll find that meaning is not found in any arrival but in forging the path. My commitment to you and to God is to walk with you, hand in hand.

I look forward to many years of mutual ministry as we continue to love and serve from our doorsteps to the ends of the earth.

Peace abundant,