John,
Last week I took the time off to get some writing done for my D Min and so I decided to go visit somewhere multicultural for worship Sunday 6/29. Since I had yet to fully experience worship at Church for All People, I headed your way yesterday. ( I ducked out early so I could get to Summit and hopefully hear my wife’s sermon too).
I want you to know that I was deeply moved by my experience with the Church for All People community. The love, joy, friendship and vitality displayed among folks of all races, nations and backgrounds there is truly an embodiment of the kingdom. I have several memorable moments I’ll take with me, but I’ll mention two.
1. I LOVE the way the band is able to pick up and start playing when someone begins a witness and breaks into a song while sharing a joy or concern. How wonderful!
2. About halfway through the service, a young white family came in and found seats towards the back. They had a boy around 4 or so who was wiggling and squirming until he turned around and saw an older African-American woman sitting a few rows behind him (she’s the one who has CDs for sale, I think). He popped out of his seat, scrambled over and under folks to get out of his row and ran back to this woman, finally leaping onto her lap and into her arms, where he rested-quiet, still and smiling-for several minutes. I had tears. It was beautiful.
I expected all of the logistical elements of the service-the flow, the prayer, the songs, the sermon-to be well done and they, of course, were. I very much appreciated your message on the “stay in love with God” simple rule.
John there are many theories about how to measure effective ministry and how to assess vital Christian community. I think we should throw them all out; send folks to Church for All People and just say, “that’s what it looks and feels like to be vital and effective.”
Thank you for your ministry. You have been, and continue to be, in my prayers.
Peace always,
Rev. Don Wallick, Pastor
Church of the Good Shepherd, United Methodist
