Challenging the Gatekeepers

This is my latest contribution to the Pastor's Column which appears in our local Helena newspaper (the Independent Record).
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In the Gospel of John, Jesus says, “This is my commandment – that you love one another.” Whether you are a follower of Jesus, or simply someone seeking to live as a decent human being, it is a challenge worthy of our very best ongoing efforts. Now, more than ever, our world stands in need of the healing balm of such all-encompassing, welcoming, accepting love. But it is not always easy and we frequently fall short of the mark. There is usually lots of room for improvement. A sign on my office door asks the question, “Which part of ‘love one another’ don’t we understand?”

This Is What A Healthy Congregation Looks Like

I have now been with you for two Christmases, two Easters, and two Let’s Talk About It events, along with a whole lot of other events and activities. Through all of it I remain convinced that Plymouth Congregational Church is a vital, healthy, and faithful congregation. You take seriously the UCC slogan, “No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.” You do an amazing job of opening your arms and opening your doors in support of people and organizations in our community who need a place to feel welcomed. On Easter, when we were joined in worship by about 25 children from Intermountain, I watched with deep gratitude as they were met by a warm and sincere sense that they truly belonged here, no questions asked. When our doors were opened to a large and enthusiastic crowd for our 11th annual Let’s Talk About It dinner, those in attendance shared an evening that reflected a great deal of planning and attention to detail, along with a sense of genuine hospitality. Groups like World Montana and Montana Human Rights Network regularly make use of our facilities for their events, and always they express deep appreciation. The impact that Plymouth makes in our community far exceeds our size. It is a joy for me to be the pastor of a congregation that practices such welcoming hospitality and lives out its faith in such generous ways.

- Pastor Roger 

(keeping my feet firmly planted in the flow)