“Rely on your call.” This is what a colleague and mentor said to me when I was appointed to serve Berry. Those words have served me well during my time here. Although I serve this church at the pleasure of the bishop, my call is to serve God by pastoring this congregation. My call is to tell people about the incredible love that God has for them.
On Sunday morning during our Charge Conference meeting, we took a look at the year that has passed and did planning for the future. As a part of this, Berry approved the release of funds for the remaining renovations of the Albany Park Ministry Center. The decision-making process was both prayerful and deliberate. I am excited to see God active in the world through our congregation.
I believe that God has called Berry to be a part of the transformation of the world in this place, and that the building that we are supporting is a part of that call. A building has never been the goal for me. A building simply gives us a home to do the work that God calls us to do. A home to welcome the Big Shoulders congregation as well as the entire neighborhood of Albany Park. A home to share in the joy that we have in doing the work of justice.
There will be further discernment in the future of how we continue to rely on our own call as a congregation, but for now we take the time to celebrate what God is doing in us and through us.
Peace,
Matthew