January 11, 2015

As we begin 2015, we celebrate endings and new beginnings… even as we continue to grow as followers of Jesus. Today we bid farewell to Mrs. Tangela Copeland who resigned as church secretary and wedding coordinator effective January 16. Tangela has served well at Eastminster Presbyterian Church for eight years. She has a glowing countenance and disposition that brighten the days of many. Tangela is a key staff person in the many transitions the church has encountered over the last several years. As I look out over the river, I relate it to her ministry. She has been a steady force in stormy waters and calm. For who Tangela is and what Tangela has accomplished we are grateful! We will recognize Tangela at the end of worship and send her out with the prayers of the church as she pursues other opportunities. There will be time during our fellowship following worship to bid her farewell personally. Plans are being made for a smooth transition of duties, even as we bid Tangela farewell. In terms of new beginnings, today we begin a six-week sermon series entitled, “Practicing the Presence of God.” The title of this series comes from a book written by Brother Lawrence, a simple layman who desired to be a monk. Because he started out with little education, Brother Lawrence worked in the kitchens and cobbler shops of the monastery, becoming well known for his humble, prayerful and Spirit-filled approach to life. Such an approach to life, inviting God into every aspect of our existences, is appealing to many in the fast paced and complex world in which we live. Yet it is not unique. The book of James in the New Testament contains highly practical guidance for being “doers of the Word and not hearers only”—i.e. for practicing the presence of God. Over the next six weeks, we will look at the book of James and consider spiritual principles that help keep us in closer contact with God. This series will be instructive to those who are just starting their spiritual journeys and to those who are “down the road” a bit. Invite a friend. Sermon manuscripts will be available on the Information Station and on the website if you need to miss a week. I’m looking forward to “practicing the presence of God” together this year! See you in church, Tim