The Members and friends of Norwood Presbyterian Church would like to invite you to celebrate the life of NPC with us this coming Sunday, February 4, 2018, at 2pm. It has fallen to us, the last members of the last congregation to join in faithful celebration with all of the Saints of the Church that went before, and lift up Norwood Presbyterian Church for the last time.
There's no way out. I've looked everywhere, as have each of my fellow members. The reality of an aging congregation with too little money is upon us. I think that the reason that I keep fighting this in my mind is that my spirit is still so engaged in the work of the congregation. I have things to do tomorrow - folks to meet as we liquidate our worldly goods. Think of it as trying to figure out what to do with all of the things in your attic or basement after a death. We are trying to figure out if we have enough money to pay our final bills. We are planning a party just the same as you would have folks back to the house after the internment.
I have been trying to face up to my responsibilities by writing and photographing the loss that I feel and the tears that I can't seem to stop shedding. As usual my camera is my solace. I pray that Sunday can be a day of joyful memories shared by all of us. I know that God has a plan for each and every one of us that is heartbroken over the loss of NPC. I pray that each of us finds a new path
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
I just googled Norwood Presbyterian Church and read the all too common story of the demise and replacement of local congregations. It is sad but at least there is still a future for your facilities. Where will you go to services?
That's not an easy situation for you and your fellow worshippers but you are not alone. The same scenario is happening in many countries...I know of several here in Scotland. But you are not alone in that you still have people who are friends and who understand your feelings and memories. Memories are a great thing as they generate so much thankfulness and we're encouraged to remember in the Bible.
And you are not alone because the church is so much more than a building and God's presence can be experienced in surprising ways.
Keep on doing what needs to be done and what you can do and I do hope you have a great party. There will be enough!
Hope you soon see his purposes working out and that great verse you quote becomes a reality. XX
Thank you so much @sarah19 for your thoughts. I know it is happening all over the place. I sound old but when I was a child everyone went to church somewhere. Now, I think it is in the minority.
My parents went through something similar. Their parish church, where my sisters both married, is now someone's home and they took down the steeple.
I hope you can find joy and celebrate where you can, and take comfort that a congregation is the people.
Your photo is beautiful which is now suprise. You always do so well.
I was struck while reading this today that in some ways your congregation is like the early church . You are disbanding and going in different directions to spread and share the love and lessons you have learned at NPC. While it is painful for you and your group it is necesaary to help grow what you found there in other parts of the world. God Bless You as you start this new journey for the lord.
And you are not alone because the church is so much more than a building and God's presence can be experienced in surprising ways.
Keep on doing what needs to be done and what you can do and I do hope you have a great party. There will be enough!
Hope you soon see his purposes working out and that great verse you quote becomes a reality. XX
I hope you can find joy and celebrate where you can, and take comfort that a congregation is the people.
I was struck while reading this today that in some ways your congregation is like the early church . You are disbanding and going in different directions to spread and share the love and lessons you have learned at NPC. While it is painful for you and your group it is necesaary to help grow what you found there in other parts of the world. God Bless You as you start this new journey for the lord.