Monday August 12st, 2024, where has the summer gone? Seasons are great as they mark the milestones of life and a sense of time. Many years ago, when in seminary setting in California where the lawns are always mowed and trees trimmed, I began to realize that I am a season’s type person and that I thrive on the seasonal rhythms of life. We find in the good Book; “From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near” Matt 24:32. I bring this topic up because so many things in life are in a cycle of change.
Congregate gatherings, church, bible studies, and similar activities, have changed over the years. These changes have been like the seasons of the calendar or of life. In recent church history we could open a church and start program and people would come. However, today in our post Covid and unchurched society life is much different. As I travel Montana interacting with leaders of houses of worship, I see a variety of places where churches with membership growing at incredible paces and where others are dwindling. Is it the great music, the speaker, or programs offered that affects attendance in a house of worship? I would contend that is about relationship and relational style ministry. So many things in our world are but a transaction, let’s not let our houses of worship be one of them.
May 2023 USA Surgeon General Dr. Murthy raised the alarm about the devastating impact of loneliness and isolation in the United States. Our communities are filled with people struggling with loneliness, hopelessness, and a sense of belonging. Seems like a perfect place for a church or house of worship to step up in their community. Office of Faith and Community Based Services would love to help your congregation find ways to support the lonely in our communities.
Rob Lawler, Faith and Community Based Services Coordinator
Email: HHSOFCBS@mt.gov
Website: faithandcommunity.mt.gov
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