Life is a Journey
Dear FUMC Buna Family:
It has been a very challenging time for us all over the past year and half. We have struggled through the isolation and upheaval of our lives in every area as we made our way through the pandemic. For a while it changed how we live in every way.
How blessed we are to still be here as we continue to move into the "new normal" whatever that is becoming. I know we have all been changed in many ways. We learned how to share the gospel and worship online via our church Facebook page, and are in awe of the new reach a little church like ours has as we continue to livestream the worship service and return to gathering together within our sanctuary.
John Wesley said, "I look upon all the WORLD as MY PARISH; thus far I mean, that in whatever part of it I am, I judge it meet, right and MY bounden duty to declare unto all that are willing to hear, the glad tidings of salvation." (Journal, June 11, 1739)
And in many ways even for us "the WORLD has become OUR PARISH" as well as we seek to share God's grace filled love offered to all people by following Jesus. This will continue to be an essential part of our ministry.
But you need to know that you are all loved and needed and greatly missed. We are praying that you will return to worshipping and studying and fellowshipping with us as your Christian family.
The writer of Hebrews reminds us of the importance of corporate worship of God when he wrote, "And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." (Hebrews 10:24-25)
We continue to keep all of you in our hearts and prayers and look forward to seeing you in worship at church as soon as you can.
Love your church family at FUMC Buna and your pastor and friend,
Pastor Rick Tate
