To be honest, I wondered if it would work.
It did, exploding the myth that mainline denominations are dead.
Kurt Imbach, our adult ministries pastor, led this morning’s service with a twist: most of the sermon time was left open for testimony time.
Yes, we had been prepared for a time of sharing via announcements in the bulletin last week and this morning. (Presbyterians are, nonetheless, orderly.) Still, I wondered if more than a few would share.
They did. Hands shot up throughout the congregation for the microphones. Each one who spoke had a deeply felt personal faith. Some shared their salvation story from long ago. Others related recent experiences. All the statements and stories were heartfelt and infused with gratitude to our loving Savior.
Near the end of the service, a member vulnerably and tearfully asked for prayer for her mother, who attempted suicide last week. Kurt prayed aloud as we prayed along silently for God to show His love to both mother and daughter.
After the heartfelt benediction, our lively postlude music burst forth, streaming joy in amongst the conversations, hugs, and laughter of the people as they departed. “The Lord Reigns”--played by piano, saxophone, and flute--sent this Presbyterian USA congregation into the new week, our hearts alive with praise.
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