Blessings from Butner PC
March 15, 2017
“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matt 19:14)
Pastor’s Corner
One of the amendments to the Book of Order that received a vote in favor at the Presbytery Meeting involves a broader interpretation of who is allowed to partake in communion. Whereas historically, the Lord’s Supper was reserved for people who are baptized, the new language is more inclusive:
“The opportunity to eat and drink with Christ is not a right bestowed upon the worthy, but a privilege given to the undeserving who come in faith, repentance, and love. All who come to the table are offered the bread and cup, regardless of their age or understanding. If some of those who come have not yet been baptized, an invitation to baptismal preparation and Baptism should be graciously extended. Worshipers prepare themselves to celebrate the Lord’s Supper by putting their trust in Christ, confessing their sin, and seeking reconciliation with God and one another. Even those who doubt may come to the table in order to be assured of God’s love and grace in Jesus Christ.”
This is a timely change, given that the Pre-K will be singing for us on April 2, which is a communion Sunday, giving us an opportunity to extend the hospitality of Christ’s table to everyone who joins us in worship, some of whom may not typically attend church.
In other news, our own Rev. Rebecca Reyes is part of the 2017 Lenten Reflection Series “Signs of Hope” sponsored by New Hope Presbytery. There is a video of Rebecca talking about the practice of “Paying Attention” as a spiritual discipline during Lent, and various ways in which you can do it, including cooking. Her remarks include a great story about getting lost while caving. You can watch the video at https://youtu.be/ZFHOuzc87TY.