written by Kathy Conley, Conference Lay Leader
Every year there is a special Sunday set aside to recognize the important ministry of the Laity. That special Sunday this year is October 15th, even though you may celebrate any time it is convenient. On that Sunday churches are encouraged to celebrate the great influence the call of God to Lay People has on the church and the world. This call is not just for those called to be Clergy, but to everyone who seeks to serve the Lord. God pours God’s love and grace into the world through each of us. We all, Clergy and Laity, are Christ’s authentic presence in the world. Each of us are “called” with a mission and with gifts to fulfill that ministry that will strengthen God’s Kingdom here on earth.
Christianity is about living lives that point others to God. Let’s continue to carry out Jesus’ mission and message to show others the way to God as we live our lives as United Methodist Lay People. Jesus tells us that the world becomes different through us because of our love for Jesus, our hope in Him and our embracing of peace. My prayers go with each of you, dear faithful servants of our Lord. I pray that your hearts may be opened everyday with new vitality, new sharing, new wonders and a new completeness as we each continue “going on to perfection”. May God’s grace and love fall on each of you.