Top 5 Newsletter ᯽ Nov 06, 2026 |
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Dear Partner in ministry,
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The aftermath of the mid-term elections is a good time to take stock of our calling as followers of Jesus. One of the hallmarks of our Presbyterian tradition is the idea that the church is always reforming. The advance of knowledge, changing circumstances, and new experiences require the continual reformation of the church. This is a reminder to us that our work is never fully completed in spite of our best efforts. While we don’t arrive, it’s helpful to ask: where are we supposed to be headed?
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Throughout his letters, the apostle Paul pleads with the church to live a life of unity and peace. The reason for Paul’s insistence on this way of life is connected to his understanding of the gospel. He views the human condition as one of alienation from God, leading to estrangement and hostility among the people of the earth. In response to this situation, God has sent Jesus to reconcile human beings not simply to God, but to each other as well. This new, inclusive human community is intended to partner with God in bringing peace and harmony to the world.
Who is included in this community? For the church in the context of the ancient world, it meant promoting peace between Jews and Gentiles. For the church of the Reformation, it meant promoting peace among competing Christian communities. For the church at the outset of the third millennium, it means promoting peace among the religious and non-religious communities of the world.
The call to continual reformation means responding to the Word of God in relation to our particular circumstances. In 1517 talk of pursuing peace among the non-Christian people of the world would have been unthinkable. In the sixteenth century the church couldn’t even manage peace between Catholics, Lutherans, Calvinists, and Mennonites! In 2026 peace among Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, and other religious traditions, as well as non-religious people is imperative—the future of the planet depends on it.
This doesn’t mean giving up Christian commitments, but it does mean establishing respectful and hospitable relations with our neighbors who don’t share our Christian beliefs. When we participate in this work, our salvation—and that of the world—draws near.
John
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| WAYS TO WORSHIP, SERVE, AND CONNECT THIS WEEK |
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Join Us for Worship, this Sunday, November 8th at 11:00am in person or on YouTube. Rev. Jessica Tate will be preaching.
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All Things Bright and Beautiful - Annual Campaign 2027: Thank you for your generosity! Pledge to the 2027 annual stewardship campaign in November to be entered in the December 6 drawing for a basket of books by GPC authors or a floral arrangement of your choice by the GPC flower committee. Your gift helps GPC serve the poor, welcome children and strangers, and comfort the suffering. Pledge here if you haven’t already.
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GPC Christmas Pageant: It’s time to cast this year’s Christmas pageant! From toddlers to teenagers, our children will tell the Nativity story during the 11am service on Sunday, December 13th. If your child would like to take part, please complete one sign-up form per child and let us know their role preferences by November 12th.
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Friendsgiving Event: Young Adults and Families with Children are invited to GPC's Friendsgiving Party on Saturday, November 21st from 3:30-5:30pm. Priscila Rodriguez and Gerry Martinez are hosting with Pat Davies. Turkey and drinks are provided, please bring a dish to share. We'll warm up with an outdoor fire pit and s'mores. Friends, partners and kids are welcome! RSVP here.
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GMC Extends: Serve a Hot Meal This Winter: Join us weekdays, November 30 to December 18, to serve hot dinners at GPC for our neighbors through the Georgetown Ministry Center! Email Pastor Grace for the sign-up link, then pick any open slot (11/30, 12/14, and 12/15 are in need of volunteers) and tell us what food or drinks you’ll bring. Plan for 30-40 people each night; the church will reimburse up to $875 per night. Dinner is at 5pm and wraps up by 6pm, with GMC staff on hand to help. We’d love to have you serve with us!
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| | | | Serving our city,
united in Christ. |
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