Pastor Donald Boutte of St. John Baptist Church sent a pastoral letter to us a week or so after our delegation returned home. In it, Don begins to interpret the meaning and impact of our work:
"The seed of your labor has already begun to develop fruit. Your work has sparked the interest of many of the residents and some have asked how they could be helpful in maintaining the garden. Thus, we have been able to begin the discussion of health lifestyle choices within the community. This is a direct result of the attractive structures the team constructed. Thank you for sharing in our vision of holistic ministry."
Pastor Boutte also testifies to how the Spirit of God is moving through our growing partnership:
"The psalmist declares: "how good and how pleasant the dwelling of the brethren--even together!" (Psalm 133:1). Our church will forever cherish the time . . .that we shared together. It was great to share meals and to get to know more about the ministries of each church. I am so thankful to God that Chuck was so tenacious in making the dream a reality. . ."
Here is testimony that holy scripture comes alive in us and through us! As I read Don's gracious letter, I am reminded that the New Testament Epistles began just this way: as pastoral letters to specific churches, often pointing to and celebrating the deep and inspired connections between faith communities (for instance, read 2 Corinthians).
Here is testimony that holy scripture comes alive in us and through us! As I read Don's gracious letter, I am reminded that the New Testament Epistles began just this way: as pastoral letters to specific churches, often pointing to and celebrating the deep and inspired connections between faith communities (for instance, read 2 Corinthians).
So I'd to suggest that we re-read the first lines from Don's "epistle" and imagine that they are biblically referenced as Perkasians 1:2-5. What is the Spirit saying to the church? What is it saying to each of us who are being discipled in the midst of this mission partnership? And what is God's vision of holistic ministry that includes both of us?
Toward the conclusion of the letter, we are pointed collectively toward the living out of new chapters:
Toward the conclusion of the letter, we are pointed collectively toward the living out of new chapters:
"I look forward to coming to Perkasie in October 2009 . . . We pray that God will continually bless the ministry at St. Andrew United Church of Christ."
Amen! 
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