Open Arms

Metropolitan Community Church

Rochester, New York

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The Weekly newsletter of Open Arms Church

Highlights from the June 2005 edition's:

     Deacon's Corner:

Yo God,

This coming Sunday there will be a healing service.

So much loss all around us these past few months.

God how do I find the joy in so much sorrow?

God how do I become the strength for others to lean on?

God how do  I find the words of comfort and support?

Guide me God through all of these “how do I”.

Remind me that it is Faith...

...that beings me to the other side of sorrow.

Remind me that it is Hope...

...that brings me to the other side of loss.

Remind me that it is Your Love...

...that reveals the light that shines from within me.

Yo God...remind me that You are always with me.

Amen

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     Pastor's Reflection:

As your pastor, I have come to understand more and more the kinds of words Paul used in his letters to the communities of faith that he founded.  “I give thanks to my God when I think of you…”

You know how affected I was by the illness and death of Duane Ocke.  In a relatively short time, I became very fond of Duane and Jim and, with your help and support, tried to walk with them during Duane’s final journey.  That walk culminated in the days after Duane’s death.  It was my honor to have been chosen to conduct Duane’s funeral and to show the large group of Duane’s friends and acquaintances and co-workers what Open Arms MCC is all about.  I heard many stories from Duane’s family about the presence and kindness and food offerings of the Open Arms community.  Deacon Debbie and Terry Keister were able to attend the funeral.  Those in attendance responded with eager attention and tears and laughter to the rather non-traditional funeral.  A few mentioned that they had “enjoyed” the experience and then felt odd to use that word about a funeral.  But, since we believe that death is not an end but a change, it was fitting to enjoy the celebration of Duane’s very impressive life.

Sisters and brothers, let me say that I am very proud of you and the growth you have made in faith and community.  As a community, we have matured.  We have learned to work together and support each other in spite of differences of opinion.  We have learned to give each other the benefit of the doubt.  We have learned to overcome disagreements.  In short, we have learned that God is our Center.  We continue to learn to put our egos aside to work for the good of God’s people.

Over 30 of you made the drive last weekend to enjoy Paul and Gene’s hospitality for a wonderful picnic.  We’ve reached a place where being together is a continuing joy.

How can I not say, “I give thanks to my God when I think of you”?

Rev. Jim

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