I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit. John 15:5 No one has written as eloquently about Christian Community than Lutheran theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer. In his Cost of Discipleship he wrote, "The incarnate Son of God needs not only ears or hearts, but living people who will follow him." Bonhoeffer was also very realistic about the challenges it takes to grow and care for such a Christian community. It takes intentionality, care, prayer, humility and above all love. In other words, like a healthy garden, a thriving Christian community needs cultivation. And so we have chosen as our Fall Worship and Teaching Theme: Cultivating Community. At the beginning of this year, no one could have predicted how challenging the work of cultivating our community would be. Yet despite all the forces that seem to be about the work of dividing us from one another, our garden is thriving. And as you look through this Fall Kickoff brochure, you'll agree that the harvest is looking good! Through the leadership of our church council, the dedication of our staff, and the creativity of our leaders, the opportunities for growth, service, and learning abound through the ministries of Lutheran Church of the Redeemer. But to keep our community healthy, we need everyone to do their part.
This fall, will you help out in the garden? Join
one of our fall Small Group book discussions as we explore methods and practices to remain in faithful community with one another even during challenging times like these.
Update
your membership information in our new REALM community database so we have your latest contact information and so others in our community can remain in contact with you.
Introduce
yourself to your Vineyard leader if you have not already done so. Our Vineyard groups are an important way that we cultivate our community as we care for, communicate, and support each other. And don't miss the opportunity to meet Pastor Jenny in your next Vineyard gathering.
Challenge
yourself to learn more about the history and systems of racism that continue to misshape our world by joining one of the online discussions or events we have planned this fall.
Continue
growing in your own generosity by faithfully returning your offerings and tithes. If you have not done so already, visit our new website to find out about online and automatic giving. And remember, our Amazon Wishlist continues to be a powerful way to support our Lutheran Community Food Ministry.
And of course continue to pray for our pastors, staff, leaders and volunteers.
Cultivating Community takes intentionality, care, prayer, humility and above all love. Thank you for your faithful generosity and support of our community. It is because of you that we are fulfilling our Strategic Planning goal that "Through Redeemer, the world will see Jesus." 731 Peachtree St NE | Atlanta, GA | www.redeemer.org
September 2020
