As this posts, I am returning from vacation. A time to be with family – siblings and their children. To celebrate Christmas (as me and my siblings are pastors, and work at Christmas!) A time to re-explore places in the south. To splash in ocean waters. To share favorite meals from each household. A time to take a break from work and (hopefully) worry. The key is, to maintain enough of vacation’s joys, spontaneity and breaks from stress. As we take moments to do so, we

“Why come to worship, when there are so many other Sunday options, and I can worship anywhere?” A worshipping community provides fellowship, education and chances to celebrate and mourn together. It offers you people who will uphold you in prayer, when you don’t have the words. It bolsters faith, or at least your questions about faith, to be with others who believe and doubt, all at the same time. You are challenged to make a difference, reassured that you are worthwhile