In these challenging times it is very important that all of us associated with St. Paul’s United Methodist Church of West Deptford understand that WE ARE THE CHURCH … actually more accurately YOU ARE THE CHURCH and I am just blessed and honored to be your current pastor.
As we hear rumors about other churches or about decisions impacting the greater church, whether it is our own denomination or other churches or church affiliate organizations, I want to be sure that each of you knows how special St. Paul’s of West Deptford is. This is truly a unique house of worship filled with love that is unmatched in my travels through the years.
St. Paul’s of West Deptford will continue to thrive because those of you who make up this church family have decided that ALL are welcome to worship alongside of you. There are no exceptions and no limitations, just genuine love that you share when a new person walks through these beautiful church doors.
St. Paul’s of West Deptford will shine brightly as we celebrate children and families. You as a church family do not hush the kids—instead you celebrate their presence. Moms and dads who have gone to churches where people are wagging their fingers at their children demanding instant silence are thrilled to discover we love kids in worship and have an awesome Children’s Message to showcase that love. Our KIDS’ PACKS help kids stay busy during worship.
St. Paul’s of West Deptford will represent Jesus Christ to our neighbors and community as long you celebrate missions such as Family Promise, Seeds of Hope, Red Bird and our guests from NA and AA who use the church 5 nights a week. People in the community notice when church is more than a sermon on Sunday— it is actually faith put into actions and attitudes!
St. Paul’s of West Deptford will be strong as long as you continue to provide strong financial support just as you have through the years. It does take money to run a church. It takes money to offer programs for our children. It takes money to pay staff and costs are not going down.
So I don’t know what is in my future.
I can only go day by day, but each day I am the pastor of St. Paul’s of West Deptford I celebrate that God has blessed me through this appointment. I do know that whenever I leave that St. Paul’s of West Deptford will remain this incredible church that represents God and Jesus Christ both within and outside the walls of our building. It’s not the building … it’s not the pastor … it’s the people of the church who make up the church and this place is so blessed that YOU ARE ALL THE CHURCH!!
Blessings!
Pastor Dave