And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good
deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but
encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Hebrews 10:24-25

​

Hello BUMC Family and Friends,

​

As summer winds down and the kids prepare to return to school, I find that I am
very excited about the coming fall and all the attendant fun activities, ministries,
and missions. As we think about that, let me encourage you to focus yourselves on
being more active in worship and other activities in the coming year. The above
verses from Hebrews remind us how important it is to gather and spur each other
on “toward love and good deeds.” Serving God has always been a group activity and
we need each other to remain strong in our faith.

As you think about being more regular in your worship attendance, know that there
will be a lot of exciting stuff happening in our sanctuary this fall. Diane Haley has
returned to our music staff which will increase our music offerings. She also
intends to start a drama team to enhance not only our worship, but all our other
programs. The praise band will play more often, but don’t worry, you’ll still hear all
your old favorite songs on the organ. We will remain a blended service. New people
of all ages are attending worship regularly and I encourage you to continue to greet
them and make them feel welcome.

The youth group, Sunday School, Wednesday evening Kid’s Connect, and a
confirmation class will all gear up in September with strong lay leadership.
Likewise, we will offer quite a few studies and small groups for youth and adults. I
suggest that each one of you become active in at least one small group. Small groups
are where we really get to know each other and it is through these relationships
that we experience spiritual growth. The world puts a lot of pressure us, and on our children, to participate in all kinds of programs and sports. These secular activities are important, but unfortunately
church activities often take a back seat. I would encourage all of you to consider
that it is only at church and at home that kids learn to be loving, kind, considerate, and non-judgmental.

These are attributes that Jesus held to be extremely important, but we will not learn them out in the world. This just reinforces the need to gather in Christian love.

​

As you move into the fall, let each of us work to balance our secular and church activities as we strive to grow in Christ. I’m very excited to see all of you this fall.​

​

Blessings to All,
Pastor Matt