You Have Been With Me From Birth

 

If there were awards for when we pastors introduce ourselves at the beginning of worship, I would win the “longest title” award. I am the Christian Formation and Outreach Pastor at St. Mark’s. I’ve stumbled over that title a few too many times, but the truth is, I actually like it. I consider myself fortunate to be able to work with all those in our church who facilitate different elements of Christian Formation.

Christian Formation, as a group, encompasses all ages from infancy through our mature years. Our wonderful staff team plans, guides, teaches, implements, oversees, budgets – and whatever additional verbs I could use ¬– to see to it that there are lots of opportunities to experience the richness of education and fellowship beyond worship. Julie (infants thru fifth grade, plus families), Spencer (PreTeens), and Rachel (all things youth and Common Grounds, i.e. younger adults in their 20s-40s), each use their unique skill sets to make that happen. I am the liaison to the Adult Spiritual Growth Committee, several task forces, and the Missions Committee.

I’m proud to be part of a church that puts an emphasis on receiving and studying God’s word and putting that word into action. Our formation as Christians never ends. There are always things to learn, ways to share, and ways to serve.

This Sunday in worship, one of the Scriptures is Psalm 71:1-6. In that passage, the psalmist begins by asking God for protection and that God might be a “rock of safety where I can always hide.” The psalmist goes on to acknowledge that the Lord is our hope and that we have been able to trust in the Lord from childhood. Verse 6 reminds us that God has been with us from the beginning of our time on earth: “Yes, you have been with me from birth.” NLT

Remember that people see God through us; that we are the ones who nurture each other’s faith, whether that’s through worship, study, service, or a simple phone call. Our paid staff members do a wonderful job of coordinating child care, Sunday School, fellowship, and opportunities for adults, but they can’t do it without your help. Consider volunteering in one of those areas. Join an adult class. Find a place to serve. Psalm 71 goes on to say, in verse 7, “My life is an example to many, because you have been my strength and protection.” Be an example to someone.

Many blessings upon your Christian formation,
Pastor Kim

WORSHIP SCHEDULE
(Please note, masks are required during all services as well as inside all St. Mark’s buildings.)
Join us for worship:

• 8:30 a.m. Traditional service with choirs in Sanctuary and child care in Rm 15
• 10 a.m. Modern worship service with Praise Team in Fellowship Hall
• 10 a.m. Traditional service with choirs in Sanctuary
• 10 a.m. Youth and children’s Sunday School and child care
• 10 a.m. Livestream premieres on YouTube and Website

To access our livestream service:

• From the main menu on our website click “Worship.”  -OR-
• Go to YouTube and search for UMC St. Mark’s Oro Valley or use this link.