As I write it is a sunny Monday after a rainy weekend. We give thanks for the rain even as we give thanks for your participation in worship and conversation despite the rain.
I ended my sermon on George Leile and Onesimus (from Paul's letter to Philemon) with the proclamation that each of us, like these brave witnesses, have, a name, a story, a ministry and a high calling.
We lift up this theme again this Sunday as we will lift up the story of Ann and Adoniram Judson who sailed as Christian missionaries representing the Congregational Church, from Boston in February of 1812, arriving in Calcutta in June of 1812. In Calcutta, having engaged in serious study of the biblical practice of baptism while on their voyage, they were baptized as Baptists in September of 1812 before sailing to Burma in 1813. It was in Burma that they made their mark on history.
As we consider their witness I will ask us to consider the ways in which the phrase "Bless God and take courage." a verse from the book of Acts that Adoniram often quoted, shaped their faith and shapes our faith.
Our Hunger Task Force meets this Sunday at 12:30 to plan for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Please join in and help make a difference in the lives of many.
Dr. Nancy Hall of ABSW will be with us in worship and at the Forum this Sunday to help us sing and celebrate the hymns of Rod Romney, LABC Pastor 1963-80.