Blogging towards Sunday

Matthew 4:12-23 if the gospel reading for this Sunday. Its essentially two stories combined into one, the second of which is the calling of Peter, Andrew, James and John. From this second pericope comes the famous quote "follow me and I will teach you to be fishers of people (men)." Its an interesting thing in our society to ponder what it means to be fishers of people. One could ask if this is a call to evangelism - go out and bring people in, to worship and to Christ. It could also be a lesson in how Christ calls each of us, as ordinary as we are, to use the skills that we already have in new ways. Thus a teacher, teaches; a parent cares; a doctor heals; and an accountant balances so that through them the Spirit can work to spread the gospel. It could also imply that, like fishing, the Church needs a plan for how it will engage the gospel vision and the mission of each congregation and believer. Which ever way you look at this is a wonderful story that lays before each of us the challenge to use the skills, talents, and resources that each of us posses to engage in Jesus' calling to fish for people.

Remembering One of Our Own

On Monday, December 31st, 2007 our faith family was called upon to gather once again to bid farewell to one of its elder churchmen. C. Victor J. Hayes - Victor or Mr. Hayes as we knew him passed away a few days before after a long and complicated medical fight that saw him in and out of hospitals for years. Gathering to celebrate were his wife Thelma and the rest of his family. A Nephew Rev. Cannon Dr. Don Hull presided at the service as we celebrated the life that Victor loved to live. Amongst the many memories that were shared were ones of a person who loved his family; worked hard to support them; took pride in his work; and was incredible enamored with his grandchildren. While for health reasons Victor and Thelma haven't been able to frequent the church in the same manner as years gone by, Victor's presence will be missed by all of us who enjoyed his spirit, his faith, and his joi de vivre.