June 8th, 2008 – Leading, Following, Touching

Reverend Mary Peterson was the presiding minister today. She let the congregation know that she and Al are scheduled to preside somewhat regularly with visits from former vicars while Pastor Dayle is on sabbatical.

The service was well-attended. The congregation was in good voice. Team Joy handled the volunteer work well and there was a minimal amount of differences in the way worship was conducted. Lisa was the Assisting Minister and should be thanked for at least a piece of that.

Rev. Mary introduced herself to the children and congregation during the Children’s Time. She talked about celebration and community and complemented Creator for being able to celebrate and be in community with one another.

For her sermon, Rev Mary pointed out there was something in common with the tax collectors and sinners, the woman suffering from hemorrhages, and the girl who died. They were all unclean and Jesus touched them all.

One part of the gospel reading that impressed Rev. Mary was that Jesus and Matthew both followed and led one another. Matthew did what Jesus asked and followed Jesus and Jesus followed Matthew to dine.

Many ideas were brought into the sermon. One was something Rev. Mary quoted: Faith is the direction our feet take us when we know that we are loved. It is an interesting quote. Flipping it was interesting as well: Faith is the direction our feet take us when we don’t know that we are loved. There is a dynamic both ways.

As usual, I’m So Glad Jesus Lifted Me was particularly joyous in sending us out.