Crossroads Notes:

From our monthly Newsletter

Faith Education -- New Program... New Youth Classes... New Time...           On Sunday, September 21, the first day of our regular Sunday School program will get going at 9:15, with classes for youth and adults. Remaining classes will be at 10:30, leaving the sanctuary after the Word for Children. Preschool, K-Grade 2, Younger Youth and Older Youth classes will all take part in a brand new learning resource. "We Believe" is the new curriculum published by our own denomination, the Presbyterian Church (USA).           These week-by-week session won't focus on passages in the weekly worship lectionary, like our previous curriculum. They present in chronological fashion great stories and people of the Bible, to encourage basic knowledge and understanding. They also work from themes of our Reformed (Presbyterian) tradition. Fall commences with the Old Testament, and the journeys of faith of God's people.           Our wonderful roster of teachers will be set to go! And all teachers are invited to a breakfast on Sunday, September 14, at 9:15, for a time of fellowship and orientation. Also, our worship service on that day will be family-style (for all ages, except that preschool children will be excused for an activity following the Word for Children).           The youth classes-one younger, one older-are meant to maximize the opportunities for learning and to continue to build our youth program. Thanks and welcome to new teachers of these groups! These classes are scheduled from 9:15-10:15 in order that youth may also attend worship on a regular basis.

Mission Statement -- Time to Make Our "Vision" Official           Last June, Session introduced the draft of a Vision Statement (the first part of a Mission Statement for our church), on two Sunday mornings. During September, we will again include the draft statement as part of worship, and Rod will preach on some of its themes. Then, on Sunday, September 28, there will be a special meeting of the congregation after worship to discuss and act on this statement. If approved, it will become part of our church's published material (in print and on website), be part of instructing new members, and be used occasionally in worship. Its themes should be followed in our life and mission as a congregation. As always, your views are most welcome in response.           Click here to read the statement. Pre-Worship Time Praise?           With Session's approval, plans are being discussed for a time of singing leading up to the formal beginning time of our worship service. These 10-15 minutes in the sanctuary, after the choir finishes its warmup and before 10:30, would be for singing of various kinds, to open our hearts and lift our spirits in preparation for the service. The idea first came from the CE Committee, and is intended to include singing that can accommodate the youngest as well as oldest worshippers in the church family. Singing may include new hymns, contemporary praise choruses, or some of the lively music featured as part of the "We Believe" curriculum.