Dear Friends,
As I look ahead to the coming Sunday, my last as your Associate Pastor at UCC Missoula, my world is more than a little chaotic—I have moved out of my church office, my calendar is full of reminders, my free-time is full of sorting and organizing everything at home. Of course, the pandemic continues, AND I just got new glasses, which require some adjustment! Phew!
Yet, I know you, UCC Missoula, as a calm place in the storm for so many people including me. When I started working with you in late 2015, my father had died in a bicycle accident that July. I cried through every staff meeting and most days on the way to work. You welcomed me generously and gently. When I was ready you gave me room to grow. You challenged and encouraged me.
Our worship theme this fall is “Covenants as Steppingstones of Faith.” You, UCC Missoula, are a steady steppingstone. You have provided stability, support, and stable jumping off places for me and for many. Now, I am turning onto a different path to serve Pilgrim Congregational UCC in Bozeman. My covenantal promises to serve you as your pastor will change.
No matter where the unknowns of the future lead us, I trust that you will be a steady, loving spiritual home for many more people who seek joy and justice in the Way of Jesus. Thank you for your steadiness, your hope, and your love. I thank God for you.
Blessings and love on your journey,
Pastor Laura
Everything Changes
In our sermon series we are exploring how our brains were designed to be suspicious of change, and for good reason–homeostasis in good measure helps us thrive, protecting us from danger. But if we look closely at what the Creator set in motion, we find that change is the most constant part of life and necessary for animating our spirits as we find renewed purpose throughout life. Jesus advocated for changes that would keep us moving toward greater goodness! “Everything Changes” John 12:20-26 In our scripture this week Jesus asks us to let go of life “as it is” in order to create and multiply the love that is eternal. What feels like the chaos, or recklessness, of change is the breaking-open of possibility and the sprouting of new life. This is what it means to follow the change-maker Jesus and serve his purpose of more love in the world. -Pastor Courtney
Sunday, September 19 Pastor Jennifer Yocum examines the second Great Covenant, the Covenant of Abraham.
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No matter who your are, or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here!
We worship whenever we are together, but we gather formally for worship Sunday mornings at 10:00 am.
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