First UCC Richmond

Dear Ones, 

Easter, Pentecost, and Trinity Sunday have come and gone and now we are back into what is called Ordinary Time (color green) sometimes called Proper or Time after Pentecost. There is nothing ‘ordinary’ about this time as it is when we learn about the miracles of Jesus and we no longer take in the Acts of the Apostles (early church development) and return to the prophetic teachings.   

St. Paul makes a statement that is worth remembering: “we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand” (Romans 5:1-2). Note that the entire statement is in the indicative: not we should find peace with God, but “we have peace with God.” Not we must gain access to grace, but “we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand.” The gospel does not depend on our hitting some right combination of theological buttons. God has already acted through Christ to grant us the grace and peace that we need.  We need only act with this in mind, have this gracious conviction.   

With this in mind, I Walk at Beebe Park at noon on Wednesdays to engage in some unusual conversations with others (strangers until we converse) and hopefully more to come as more venture to the park for summer activities and leisure. Most Thursday evenings (5-8:00 pm) I am at the church to engage in conversation with whoever comes by. Sometimes a visitor from around the area comes by, sometimes a seasoned member to get better acquainted or express an issue. In Matthew 28:19, Jesus instructed his disciples to go forth and matheteuo (make disciples). This can only happen when relationship is developed. As the Trinity is a relationship of love between the three in one, yes, a mystery we cannot fully understand, but one that expresses relationship. Developing that openness to relationship is how community happens. As we engage with and reach out to others - they become disciples.   

The lazy, hazy days of Summer and ‘Up North’ travels are upon us: a blessed time to refresh, renew, and remember. Keep us in mind as you vacation, invite others to join us, and most of all remember you are a blessing and blessed. I am looking forward to all that the city of Richmond offers including the end of the month city garage sale in which we will participate. 

See you in church.

Pastor KatieD 

Pastor Katie’s Office Hours and Pastoral Care

Pastor Katie will be in her office at the church on Wednesdays & Thursdays. If there are situations that arise in which you need pastoral care on a day that Pastor Katie is not in the office, please call 586-727-3155 and leave a message with Helen or on the answering machine. You can also give Pastor Katie a call:   Cell number: 586-202-8644 Home phone: 586-716-9543 

In the old days, hospitals and rehab/nursing facilities used to inform pastors when one of their flock was admitted. That doesn’t happen anymore. Pastor Katie is always happy to receive your calls.