This weekend Church of the Palms will observe Laity Sunday, a special Sunday defined by the General Conference of the United Methodist Church to “celebrate the ministry of all Christians” (2016 Book of Discipline ¶ 264.2).
Traditionally observed on the third weekend in October (this year, October 16), Laity Sunday is one way we express the deep conviction that all are called to participate in God’s mission and live this calling through the ministry of the church. It is one of many reminders that the church is not the pastor but the people. YOU are the church.
The Vision Statement for Church of the Palms, how we want to be seen as we carry out our God-given work, is:
TRANSFORMING LIVES BY CONNECTING PEOPLE TO GOD AND TO ONE ANOTHER.
The following Mission Statement for Church of the Palms declares where we will put our primary attention and energy going forward to achieve our vision.
SPIRITUALLY NOURISH AND GROW A FAITHFUL, ACTIVE CONGREGATION OF CHRIST FOLLOWERS WHO EXTEND LOVE AND GENEROSITY IN SUPPORTING THE NEEDS OF ALL OTHERS
Our 2016 Book of Discipline, ¶ 127, “The Ministry of the Laity” (p.97) gives clear responsibility and authority for achieving this to the Laity.
“The witness of the laity, their Christ-like examples of everyday living as well as the sharing of their own faith experiences of the gospel, is the primary evangelistic ministry through which all people will come to know Christ and The United Methodist Church will fulfill its mission.”
This weekend, David Voyles, your Lay Leader, and many others will lead us in worship at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m., October 16, as we come to hear again what God would have us know and do.