“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, or those who are called according to his purpose.”
Romans 8:28
Dear friends,
When I first met with the Search Committee at Edwards Church last summer and we began to get to know each other, each of us felt that there was something drawing us together. We sensed the connection, a spark of excitement and possibility that marks the Holy Spirit’s presence. That spark grew into a call to mutual ministry that brought me to Edwards Church to serve as your associate pastor. I arrived in September of last year and we set off on our journey together!
This month marks the first anniversary of my arrival at Edwards Church as your associate pastor of faith formation and outreach. Where did the time go and who could imagine the journey we’ve been on together in the last twelve months!!!
What better way to celebrate than to come together for my installation service which is now scheduled for Sunday, September 20, during our usual zoom worship at 10:00 a.m. A virtual installation will a first for the Central Association, as well as all of us, and I’m excited to bring all of the creative energies of Edwards to this special day.
“Karen Nell has already been here a year,” you may be thinking. “She’s already part of our church community, why do we need a special service?” A service of installation is a unique rite in the life of a United Church of Christ congregation. It’s an official acknowledgement of our call to shared ministry and our commitment to walk with one another. It’s an affirmation that you and I agree that “We belong together!” as we make covenant promises of support and care for my ministry here, the mission and ministry of Edwards Church, and our covenantal relationship with the Central Association…and God.
After the 10:00 a.m. service, the celebration will continue that afternoon with a for special outdoor, socially distanced event for our Christian Explorers. “Backpacks and Bibles” will include a Treasure Hunt on church property for families and children. What better way to kick off our “school year” at church and reconnect after six long months of separation!
I hope that you will join us for the 10:00 a.m service on September 20 as we rejoice in all that God has done with us over the past year and look forward together with joy and hopeful anticipation for all that is yet to come.
In peace,
Karen Nell