July 16, 2026
Dear Central Church,
I'm looking forward to the Kansas City District Assembly, which begins this evening! This annual gathering brings together pastors and lay leaders from more than 100 Nazarene churches across the greater Kansas City metropolitan area.
Events like this remind me that we are not alone in the work God has called us to do. All across our city, God is raising up faithful men and women to serve in different communities, different ministries, and different contexts. Though our congregations may look different from one another, we share the same mission: to make Christlike disciples in the nations.
It's easy to become so focused on the work right in front of us that we forget we're part of something much bigger. I'm grateful that Central is one congregation among many—churches united by a common theology, a shared spirit, and a common mission. The task before us is greater than any one church can accomplish alone, but together we become part of a movement of God's people that reaches far beyond our own walls.
Tonight, I'll worship alongside brothers and sisters from across our district, and I know my heart will be drawn to the words of Hebrews 12:
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus..." (Hebrews 12:1–2)
What an encouraging reminder. We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses, and we have the privilege of running this race together.
If your schedule allows, I'd love for you to join us for one or more of the District Assembly services at College Church of the Nazarene. I think you'll leave encouraged and inspired.
Thursday – "The Encounter" | 7:00 p.m.
Friday – "The Celebration" | 7:00 p.m.
Saturday – "The Sending" | 2:00 p.m.
Saturday's Sending service will be especially meaningful as three of our own pastors—Lucas Nunes, Julianna Nunes, and Dani Julca—are ordained. We celebrate this significant milestone with them and thank God for His call on their lives and ministries.
This Sunday we'll continue our Watch and Pray series as we consider Paul's simple but profound instruction: "Pray without ceasing." (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
Have a wonderful weekend. I look forward to worshipping with you on Sunday!
Always Hopeful,
Pastor Mark