Dear Readers:
I recently led worship at South Hill Presbyterian Church in South Hill, Virginia; I was there not long ago, but returned as their pastor very much desired to attend their granddaughter’s graduation.
My sermon centered on Matt. 9:9–13 and 18–26, followed by celebrating the Lord’s Supper. As with my previous visit, it was a wonderful Sunday and a pleasant drive down and back.
This Sunday reminded me of something our congregations sometimes struggle with: How do our preachers—TEs, CREs, REs, CE’s, all—find a stand-in when away, especially if their congregation is far from larger population areas?
We do indeed have our pulpit supply list, carefully created and monitored by the COM. This is one way COM helps, but our list isn’t large enough and presents geographical challenges for both congregations and supply preachers due to our size and travel distances.
So, reader-colleagues, please prayerfully consider reaching out to the COM if you can preach as a supply preacher. Your voice deserves to be heard again!
Turning back to South Hill, the perks of visiting more than once are simple: I remember a lot of faces and even some names; I know the feel of the sanctuary and the building layout; my car remembers the way; I’m one visit beyond being a visitor or guest! This was surely true as I stood behind the communion table and celebrated the Lord’s Supper with the congregation.
A great joy of the pulpit is the connection, worked out over time, of truly seeing and knowing the faces you see. It’s comforting to know that “so-and-so” usually sits to my right, and the rambunctious toddler sits (too) close to the front. It’s easier to make eye contact, there’s a growing sense of belonging for the pastor, and it’s a time to rejoice internally and externally.
You might think, “Seriously, after only two visits?” Yes, that is exactly so. All it takes is two visits to start to build a relationship. And quite often, it can begin with that first visit as well.
Our created DNA longs for belonging and connection. We are not called to be alone (Genesis 2:18). Be mindful when that new person shows up at church. Be extremely thankful the second time the second time they come. And should that new person be a guest preacher, do the same. Getting them there a second time will be much easier!
Till my next road trip,
Blessings on all!
Kerry