E-Minute by Patti Marcum

July 8, 2007

For those of you who might be unfamiliar with the E-minute, E stands for Evangelism.  In my dictionary, one of the definitions of “evangelism” is “militant or crusading zeal.”  If you are expecting that from me, you will be disappointed.  However, I can answer the question “Why do I belong to Crescent Hill Presbyterian Church?”

I grew up attending a small Presbyterian church.  Like here at Crescent Hill Presbyterian Church, Sunday school teachers taught me about the Bible and a man named Jesus.  People in that small community of faith knew my name, valued my presence in their midst, and took the time to nurture me in faith.  They showed me God’s love.  They weren’t perfect folks—and were very aware of that.  But they struggled together to be followers of Jesus’ teachings of love. 

The people in this community of faith are on a similar journey.  We hold each other accountable to Jesus’ teachings of love and justice—and frequently stretch each other beyond just our own cares and concerns.  There are lots of caring people who don’t attend church who have big hearts and live good lives.  But, being part of this community of faith helps me be more faithful to the teachings of Jesus.

The liturgical part of worship here is important to me.  Worship gives me a weekly opportunity to express gratitude for the gifts of life, to examine my life and express regret for when I have hurt others by actions done or not done, and to receive forgiveness.  Listening to scripture and sermon give me nourishment for life’s journey.  There is something both familiar and mysterious about worship.  Worship in this community of faith is something that my soul just seems to need.

Finally, I belong to Crescent Hill Presbyterian Church because I need to stand shoulder to shoulder with each of you on Sunday mornings and hear words like these:

“Go out into the world in peace; have courage; hold on to what is good; return no one evil for evil; strengthen the fainthearted, support the weak, and help the suffering; honor all people; love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit.”  (from the Book of Common Worship)

Thank you for this community of faith.