Eade’s Bedes*
*In ancient times prayers were marked and tracked with beads (bedes). Hence prayers were also known as ‘bedes.’ My father started naming his columns Eade’s Bedes; I thought it was appropriate to do the same.
“Greetings from the New Guy”
It is so nice to be here! You who have been here know that, of course. This church has had a rich and full history and seen some great days. I believe great days are also still ahead. This beautiful church and its buildings and grounds, fine location and solid foundation cannot help but attract new members as we rededicate ourselves to our work. It’s an exciting time to be part of St. Martin’s.
In the coming months, we will be doing some interesting work together: looking at ourselves and our neighborhood, recalling our history, rethinking our policies and patterns and shoring up what is good, discovering new things to do in Christ name, and celebrating our life in God’s kingdom. There will be some changes as are deemed needed and reaffirmation of the rest. We want everyone to feel a part of this work. After all, we are all essential to the life of this congregation.
This is perhaps the most important time in this parish’s life; equal to its foundation and the establishment of the school. This is the time when we will launch the church into the future. It is a perfect time to invite your neighbors and friends and family to come and grow with us. More people join a church because of that invitation than any other reason. It is also a time to renew your own commitment, a time to come back, a time to begin new things in service to Christ in this place. It is vital that we all pray for the life of St. Martin’s. Prayer will do as much or more than anything else we do.
There are many great days ahead: All Saints’ Sunday (November 7), Thanksgiving, Advent and Christmas are just around the corner. Let’s take this opportunity to get excited, to share our joy and fellowship.
Come Grow With Us!
