October 10, 2024
Dear Central Church,
Hello Neighbor!
Did you know there are more than 20 different countries represented here at Central? God is shaping us to be a multicultural congregation that is rich with diverse and unique stories.
Beginning this Sunday, you’ll see a photography display in our church lobby entitled, “Hello, Neighbor.” This display is a collaboration between Tim Murray and our multicultural pastors intended to highlight the different nationalities at Central and tell a little of their story in coming to “the neighborhood.” The display recognizes their journey, builds on our culture of life-giving community, and celebrates God’s faithfulness in bringing them to the US and Central Church. You can check it out here.
I’ll also be preaching a sermon series that equips us to “bless” our neighbors. It’s based on a book entitled, B.L.E.S.S. 5 Everyday Ways You can Love Your Neighbor by Dave Ferguson and Jon Ferguson. This simple acronym stands for:
Begin in Prayer
Listen with Care
Eat Together
Serve Sacrificially
Share Stories
I don’t think I’ve ever been this excited for a new sermon series! My prayer for this journey is that God would use it to equip us to bring lost people to Jesus! The books are currently on backorder, but we hope to have some for sale in the lobby by October 27!
Faith Promise
We had an amazing weekend blessing our community on Engage Day and hearing about God’s work in Cuba! Check out this video from last weekend!
Faith Promise is giving over and above our regular support of the church for global and local missions. Our goal this year is $197,200. That’s roughly 10% of our annual budget and reflects our historic commitment to be a mission-minded church. This funding goes to support work outside the walls of our church and is a gift over and above your regular support of the church.
Would you pray about being a part of this movement? You can also make a commitment by clicking here.
Finally, I’ve been at a preaching conference all week in Estes Park, Colorado.
I’ve been on the mountaintop physically and spiritually for the last few days. I’m leaving here today ready to worship with my Central Church family and embrace our shared mission to see lost people come to know Jesus! See you Sunday!
Until He’s Finished,
Pastor Mark