Jesus declares in John 15:4, “Abide (or remain) in me, and I in you.” Abide is a beautiful word. It is a vital condition of fruitfulness. We can never bear fruit or become like Christ unless we abide in the Vine. This command to abide or remain in Christ comes to us with all the force of a parting message. This is one of Jesus’ final injunctions to those who are committed to following Him forever.
Ten times in seven verses, the keyword “abide” is repeated. He commands, and He exhorts all in one breath – little children, I am leaving you. There are many things that I would want to say to you, but I will leave them all unsaid if you remember this all-inclusive abiding. Abide in Me. Remain in Me. Stay in Me. Deepen your faith. Allow Me to supply your life sap that will enrich your fruit.
Whenever we are discouraged, whenever we are tempted to forsake God’s love for bitterness, envy, or hatred, Jesus is telling us to remember the image of the vine. Step back and say, “I choose to remain in the love of Christ.” When we do that, then the imagery comes into focus. We are part of the Vine. We are part of Christ, and there is strength for our weakness. May we all choose to abide in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Worship
Adult Bible Study Class
Our Adult Bible Study class will meet this Sunday at 9:30 a.m. in the large Sunday school room. Please join Lowell Gross and others for a wonderful time around God’s Word!! We will focus on 1 Corinthians 9: “Paul’s Rights and Use of His Apostleship.” Please bring your Bible.
Pastor Search Committee Update & Prayer
Your Pastor Search Committee is in the process of finding our next lead pastor. They are reviewing some initial inquiries about the position and beginning the process of interviewing some selected applicants.
We invite you to covenant to pray for the next pastor and specifically for the Pastor Search Committee, as they seek the Lord! As the Lord directs, you may even wish to fast for a meal or a day or more. Corporate prayer is so needed! Join with other sisters and brothers if you can.
Tithes & Offerings
An offering box is available when you enter or exit the sanctuary. Additionally, Online Giving
Hurricane Relief
As of October 21st, $2,400 has been donated by HCC members (above tithes/offerings) to the EPC General Assembly for the Hurricane Disaster Relief effort. Thanks so much for making a difference in so many whose lives have been dramatically changed!Our Session met on Monday, October 21st at 5:00 p.m. with a follow-up meeting on Thursday, October 24th. The following are some of the highlights:
- Ruling elder Tim Stewart led a study of Romans 1:17, focusing on the importance of the righteous living by faith.
- We approved the session minutes for September 16th and the called session meeting for October 7th.
- Pastor Glen shared his report, which included a recap of the October Presbytery meeting. Mike Adams and Bill McCaskill led the “Order of the Day,” regarding evangelism. Pastor Glen was installed as the moderator of the presbytery.
- Review of the budget by Elder Tim Stewart, including the plans for the 2025 budget.
- We received an update on the welcome center upgrades
- We approved the purchase of additional chairs for the sanctuary and the purchase of additional hymnbooks.
- We continued our conversation regarding the potential responsibilities of the new Board of Deacons. The new deacon board will meet to share their ideas as a clear set of duties is established.
- We reviewed a policy regarding Session meeting attendance by members
- We discussed plans for the Alpha course, which will commence in January.
- We approved the purchase of a cell phone and separate email for the Caring and Compassion Ministry.
- We discussed the policy for inclement weather procedures.
- We discussed the use of the “annex” for women’s ministry and potential other uses.
- We reviewed the process for communion, including potential new stations.
- We established a short-term designated fund to provide improved safety while descending/ascending the slope/bank from the upper parking area.
- We also negotiated the use of the “annex” between the main church building and Millers Supplies at Work for the Women’s Ministry and other church ministry activities.
- Please pray for the Session, as they will meet next Monday, November 18th.
Budget Update
Total Tithes/Offerings for October: $25,568.20 YTD: $257,155.89
Total Expenses for October: $9,808.58 YTD: $161,414.86
Golden Oldies
The Golden Oldies had a wonderful time together on Wednesday, as they enjoyed lunch out at the Wood Grill in Harrisonburg. On a special note, the group decided to reduce the age to 70 for those who would like to participate in their gatherings.
There will be NO meeting in December. Celebrate with church services and family gatherings!!
Mission Corner
The Prayer Room is an outreach ministry in downtown Waynesboro, caring for people practically and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ! We are collecting personal hygiene and wrapped food items to support this ministry. Any donations can be brought to the church, and they will be given to the Prayer Room.
Love INC We are collecting cleaning supplies (e.g., dish detergent, all-purpose household cleaner, laundry detergent) from October through December for Love INC.
The Missions Team actively keeps in touch with our missionaries and other ministries. Please keep updated! You can visit our website and go to the Mission Page
Holy Yoga
We are currently hosting Holy Yoga, led by Emily Gray. Holy Yoga offers a holistic approach that connects the mind, body, and spirit with God, and it is accessible to everyone. This approach is founded on three pillars: exercise, breathing, and meditation. Emily leads the class using the Bible as the focal point. The class meets each Thursday at 6:00 in our church facility. If you have questions, please contact Emily at ewgray@live.com.
November Birthdays
Cindy Roberts (11/16); Kathy Doyle (11/17)