August 14th, 2026 | Rev. Rachel Williams

Dear Beloved Friends,

               In the book of Matthew, Jesus has some very clear instructions for his disciples: “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you…” (Matthew 28:19-20). This is the Great Commission, and one of the core imperatives for the disciples is that they make other disciples, by baptizing them and teaching them. Our discipleship journey, then, is vital not only for our individual faith development but also a means by which we grow collectively as a body of believers.

As Wesleyans and United Methodists, a core part of our identity is connection, particularly connection that is made when we gather together to pray, search the Scriptures, learn, and take the sacraments together. My encouragement for you in this new “school year” is to engage ever more deeply in your discipleship journey by taking one of our classes or joining one of our Sunday School classes.

               This Sunday, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to learn more about all of the Christian Education opportunities- from infancy to late adulthood- at our Faith Formation Expo in the Gathering Space of Maxwell Hall. Between the 8AM and 9:30AM services and following service at 11AM, you’ll have the opportunity to meet with teachers, learn about and sign up for classes, and consider ways in which you might be able to connect with others spiritually. I know many of us are incredibly busy with work, family, travel or any number of life’s good and hard complications, but I hope that there might be something that speaks to you, that gives you space to broaden and deepen your understanding of God’s infinite love. I hope to see you this Sunday!

With Grace and Peace,

Pastor Rachel