March 16 Council News
· May 6-7: Save the date! Vibrant Congregations is an organization that comes alongside local churches to discern the best path to their God-given, hope-filled future. Larry Doornbos, director of Vibrant Congregations, will guide us through their vibrancy pathway process on Friday evening and Saturday morning, May 6-7. The process invites the entire congregation to take a survey in weeks leading up to his time with us, and those who would like to participate in weekend events to engage in a process of prayer and reflection prior to the meeting. This effort will help us understand where we are in the lifecycle of our church and provide direction in how best to proceed. Plan now to participate!
· New City Salt Lake Opportunity: We are exploring options for sharing our building with New City Salt Lake Presbyterian Church in America, a congregation that used our space for nearly ten years as they got established. This opportunity allows our congregations to explore joint ministry, from shared fellowship time to education and youth group. In order to facilitate sharing space, we are exploring changing the time of our current worship service from 10:30 am to 11:00 am, so that New City can meet at 9:00 am. To celebrate and welcome New City, we are anticipating a shared Easter brunch and combined service. Then, the Sunday following Easter, the two congregations would begin meeting at their new times, with Life in Christ meeting at 11:00 am. We would love to hear your thoughts as we contemplate this change.
· 9:30-10:15, Sunday, March 20 - Prayer and Conversation: Would you like to hear more about the Vibrant Congregations process, explore the opportunity to share space with New City, or talk about something else affecting the life of our church? If so, the elders are hosting time for prayer and conversation this Sunday morning. If you have thoughts to share with the elders or other congregation members you are invited to join us.
· Classis Yellowstone Highlights: Classis accepted Ian Deffenbaugh’s request for financial aid as he enters seminary this fall. We are thankful that Classis can help support young people in our congregation intending to enter into ministry! Also note that Classis dismissed Jonathan Owens from his calling as Minister of the Word in the CRC. The Owens family maintains their membership at Life in Christ.
· Church and COVID-19: The Council continues to monitor guidance about responding to COVID in our community. Salt Lake County is currently classified as “medium risk,” so we will continue to wear masks in the church building to help protect the health of vulnerable people among us. However, we also understand the need for social connection and the desire to more easily talk with one another after church. As the weather warms, let’s take conversations outside when we can, where masks can be removed and we can more easily have conversations.
· I Need Help…Who Do I Call?: The council is committed to your care and support. Please be in touch with your elder as needs arise. We here to listen, pray, or help in material ways.
· Caring Ministry: We have the opportunity as congregation members to love and serve each other. The newly formed caring team had its first meeting last month and welcomes your involvement. Do you feel gifted or called to serve in this way? If so, please talk with a council member.
Each month your council also spends considerable time in prayer for individuals in our church and community, as well as for our congregation as a whole. Please be in touch with an elder or a deacon if you have specific prayer requests.