Rebecca’s Writings

Last Sunday, I noted wryly that I’d now crossed a pastoral milestone - it was the first time in 20 years of ministry that I’d used the word "port-a-potty" in worship. (For those of you who missed it, you are invited to use them, but note that the large disabled-accessible one is the luxury model for Stone Church members!)

Yes, construction at Stone Church has begun. Port-a-potties and construction tags. The Blach Construction sign and our Sunday Worship at 9:30 sign now co-exist nicely on the corner of Clark Way.

Sure it is disruptive. Sure it is a bit messy. But in so many ways our ministry continues its normal August rhythm. The pace begins to quicken a bit.

We will all soon be asked to pick up one of the household tasks of Stone Church’s ministry. Our Christian home needs ushers, church school teachers, folks who like odd jobs, such as organizing the all-church picnic, and others who want regular weekly or monthly rhythms, such as greeting newcomers, lighting Taize candles, or mentoring a new member.

We’ll also be hearing about new fall plans. The Men's Mission Work Trip comes in September. High school kids will be camping in August and leaving for a mission trip to Westminster Woods in October. Middle school kids will be hearing about a new November retreat. Another Family Soul Feast weekend on the topic of Peacemaking will take place in October.

Stone Church leaders and members have brought good humor and resourcefulness to the disruptive changes that remodeling brings. Judging by the liveliness of our worship this summer - and the energy for the future - we’re not only remodeling with hammers and drywall, we’re also doing some great construction to build a community that witnesses to Christ in the larger world.

Constructively yours and many Blessings!

Rebecca Kuiken