'Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ'.

Galatians 6:2

One of the marks of a vibrant and healthy parish is its ability and desire to care for the needs of its members in whatever circumstances they may be experiencing. When I was growing up in the church; the attitude was that caring for the members was the role of the clergy. Thank heavens this is no longer the case, and each of us as members of the body of Christ bears responsibility for reaching out to those in need. The church only

functions as the body of Christ when we work together for the common good. I feel like we are really functioning well when one of us receives a message that someone is in the hospital or is ill or is experiencing any type of difficulty.

Often, we don't know those things and your contact gives us thopportunity to minister to that person. I also feel that we are a healthy parish when I learn of the kindnesses you show each other who are in need. Just as a reminder, if someone you regularly see in church isn't present for a couple of weeks, please call that person. If they aren't experiencing any difficulty, they'll be pleased you thought of them, and if they are, they'll be even more pleased. As always, we ask that you notify the clergy or the office just in case we are not aware.

Let us continue to be a strong, loving community.

Judy Mathis, Deacon