What's New? - by Pastor Rod

It’s hard to believe but we are in the middle week of August.  Most of us in this congregation and community value the summer months for relaxation, vacations, travel, and spending more time with our families.  And while those things are also important to us, this is also a busy time for the staff at Redeemer as we prepare for the fall. 

Our staff is preparing for the return of fall programming – Christian Education for children, youth and adults; several outreach opportunities; Welcome Weekend; and more.

Some of the “new things” that you will experience this fall are:

·         We will be launching a new website in a few weeks – giving us a more up-to-date look that is compatible with all devices and more ease of access to all the ministries and opportunities here at Redeemer.

·         With the help of a graphic artist, we developed a new logo.  While there are many core theological doctrines and values that do not change…how we market ourselves to the community is constantly changing.  We hope that it invites people who may be far from God or looking for a church home to come to Redeemer and encounter God, find hope, and experience grace.

·         This summer we changed the look on stage in the Worship Center.  We’ve moved the drums, added some new musicians – all in a desire to grow people and provide our congregation with a quality worship experience.

·         On August 3, we held our first Summer Fun Night.  This was an outdoor event – planned for the community.  In partnership with Tiffany Funeral Home in Lansing, we hosted nearly 500 adults and kids as we enjoyed food, fellowship and lots of fun.

·         Two Mission Teams shared the love of Christ, this summer, in Haiti and in Eastern Kentucky…using their spiritual and vocational gifts to bring help and hope to those in need.

·         Scores of students and adult staff experienced the joy of Christian camping at places like Christian Athletic Camp and ACT Camp at Wesley Woods.  The inspiration, encouragement and impact for Jesus Christ that is experienced in each of these camps will make an eternal difference.

·         We continue to be a resource for many pastors and churches in the West Michigan and Detroit Annual Conferences (soon to be the Michigan Area of the United Methodist Church).  We believe that “the local church is the hope of the world” and we have a responsibility to help strengthen and revitalize churches that are struggling.

·         Being the largest UMC in the Lansing area and strategically located near the Bishop’s office and Area Ministry Center (located in DeWitt) – we are asked to host numerous Conference meetings and events.  On October 9, we will host the Installation Service for 3 new District Superintendents.

·         On September 17, we will host a national event – The Radical Disciple Making Conference – led by Bill Easum, Bill Tenny-Brittian, and Scott Musselman nationally known church consultants.

I am excited every day to wake up and be part of a church that is dynamic and making a difference in the lives of people in this community and beyond.  But know that we can’t do it without you.  Please pray about how you can best serve and give as we continue to expand our reach and make a Kingdom impact.

Pastor Rod