A Word From the Pastor (February 2008)

Dear Friend in Christ,

As I write, our own Clara Keane is packing her bags for a New York Annual Conference Volunteer in Mission trip. Clara is participating in the N.Y.A.C. Youth Ambassadors trip to Costa Rica from February 13 - Feb. 23. She will represent the New York Annual Conference, the New York Connecticut District, and the Fishkill United Methodist Church as she joins hands with other youth to bring the love of Christ to people in another land. The team will be involved in reaching out to children and youth in Costa Rica as they engage in building and outreach efforts. We look forward to hearing about the fruit of their witness when Clara returns.

We are now in the season of Lent. Many in this time adopt a discipline of sacrifice. People often give up certain foods, or meals, or entertainments, or habits, as an expression of their commitment to the Lord. However, another way to refocus our minds on God and rededicate our lives to God’s service is to take on new habits, commit to new ministries of service. Clara’s trip to Costa Rica will be a wonderful opportunity for her to explore and express her faith while joining hands with brothers and sisters in Christ whose life experiences are very different from her own. What a great way to experience Lent. However, you don’t need to travel hundreds of miles or journey to a foreign land in order to revitalize your commitment to Christ and reach out to the world. Opportunities abound right in our midst.

In this holy season, why not try doing something new for Christ. Why not take time to express compassion in a new way. Visit a shut-in. Call on the sick.  Participate in our Lunch Box volunteer day on March 17, serving meals to hungry people right in Poughkeepsie. Send cards or care packages to church members who are in nursing homes and retirement communities in other parts of the country, to let them know they are in our thoughts and prayers. Spend some extra time in prayer for those on our church prayer list and for the needs of our community, our nation, and our world. Note the U.M.C.O.R. news in our weekly bulletin to become informed about global needs and perhaps adopt a particular concern to support with your prayers and offerings. Make a special effort to support the One Great Hour Of Sharing this year. Invite a friend or neighbor to church so they might experience the warmth of Christian community. Drive an elderly neighbor to the doctor or offer to run errands for someone who is ill. Renew your commitment to Christ, turn your life to the Lord, by sharing Jesus’ love in specific and intentional ways.

Clara is going to Costa Rica. I know God will bless her and others through this mission experience. Why not adopt a little mission of your own this Lent and see what a blessing that can be to you and to those you touch.

God bless you with a holy Lent,
Rev. Peggy Ann Sauerhoff