Regular worship is important to me for so many reasons. I go to church because I feel refreshed, and reminded, and grounded in what is most important to me. It’s so easy to forget in our busy, complicated lives to love one another, to think about the bigger picture instead of just the next task at hand.
I feel refreshed because St. James’ is such a welcoming place. We all come to church from wherever we are in life, and all are accepted. I always feel peaceful. It is a time when I can reflect on the week that has passed, and think about the coming week, and remember what is important. I also love the words and prayers of the service. There is something powerful in us all praying and singing together. The familiarity of the service and rituals is very comforting.
I need the reminders from the readings, and I always take away something to think about after listening to Lori’s+ or Anna’s+ sermons. I appreciate the interpretation of the readings and their application to our present-day lives. I like feeling part of a community, welcomed and accepted just as I am.
~Katie Porter