May 17, 2015

Tim’s Tidings Today is a big day in the life of Eastminster. First, it is Joining Day. It is a day in which those who desire to become members of Eastminster may do so at the end of the service. Becoming a member of Eastminster is an expression that Jesus is Lord and that you desire to serve God through participating in the worship and mission of the church. Both full time and seasonal residents of the area may do so. Becoming a member is a “yes” to God and God’s family that often results in deeper personal devotion. It also allows one to elect church officers as we will do at the conclusion of Sunday’s worship. Presbyterian literally means “ruled by elders.” Today we elect Elders who serve as the officers of our church. There are twelve Elders who serve terms of three years each. We elect four Elders each year. Your Nominating Committee is presenting Dick Dunn, Nancy Fowler, Jill Hoffman, and Timothy Leech to serve three year terms. In addition they are presenting Stacy Reeder to serve a one year term due to the death of beloved Judy Roach. Biographies of these elders are found on an insert to your worship guide. Today we also commission Stephen Ministers. Stephen Ministers are an essential part of the care offered to members of Eastminster. They come alongside persons who are in grief, illness, relational difficulty or other times of trial as trained caregivers. The Stephen Ministers we commission today have completed a rigorous course of training facilitated by many persons who have expertise. Stephen Ministers include Melinda Miller, Kate Crook, Barbara Allen, Donna Hildebrand, Esther Chinnery, Tom Sylvester, Ginny Leslie and Kendra Ro. These persons are highly qualified, spirit-filled individuals who I commend to you as “the hands and feet of Christ,” called and present to serve as you have need. If you would like to know more about receiving care form a Stephen minister, please contact me! A special thanks in the development of this class of Stephen Ministers goes out to the Rev. Dr. George Lashley. The strength of this church is the Holy Spirit working through passionate, caring members. Together we worship, learn, serve, give and grow as we seek to share Christ’s love with the world. What an honor it is to be united together, doing together what none of us could do alone. It is a joy to be your pastor! May God bless you in every time and season, Tim