Feb. 23, 2009 issue
Every nation and language
Peace Mennonite Community Church, Aurora, Colo.
By William T. McConnellTwo other congregations meet in the Peace Mennonite building: Eden Korean Church and Ministerios de Cristo Lluvias de Gloria (Rain of Glory Ministries of Christ). We held a joint Christmas Eve service, with prayers, hymns and Scripture readings in three languages, giving us a taste of joining with God’s people “from every nation … and language, standing before the throne” (Rev. 7:9).
After Phil Ebersole resigned as pastor in order to begin a new work in nearby Denver, the church called Pastor Patrick Hobin of Evergreen as transition pastor. He has led the congregation in a series of small-group meetings and congregational exercises in “Living in Biblical Community” to help the church understand its mission, unique gifts and ministry potential before calling a new senior pastor. Pastor Hobin also focused on leadership development, conducting training with individuals interested in learning how to lead worship and Sunday school classes.
Use of the church’s food pantry almost doubled in the second half of last year, reflecting the growing need for assistance in the neighborhoods surrounding the church building. The pantry’s organizer, Lynette Cooley, moved to South Carolina with her husband in January, instigating a re-evaluation of the ministry and realignment of resources.
Comment on the article Every nation and language
The purpose of comments is to engage in dialogue. We expect commenters to treat authors and each other as each would want to be treated. Respectful criticism is welcomed; offensive comments or parts of comments will be removed by the site administrator. Name and comment will be posted; email address is for follow-up only and will not be made public.
Download
Download a free PDF showing the populations of
Mennonite groups and other Anabaptists.
