Who we are at St. James….

Consider these words as some aspects that make Saint James who we are.

Shalom, Pastor Jeff

 

God is. Our Father God loves us. Jesus is our Savior. The Holy Spirit is in our lives. God is Lord; scripture is authority. This overrules the pastor, synod, the world. We obey God.

 

Worship is our center as disciples. Sermons are to be practical. We offer classes and youth and more; but worship is what is required and expected.

 

Proper respect is a key virtue. Respect of God. Respect of our parents. Respect of the pastor. Respect of church. BE RESPECTFUL. This is respect in action including active support and love in our congregation; especially when there are hurts that need healing. This respect includes lifting up God is prayer and in other ways at family gatherings and other activities of the membership.

 

Family really does matter. Family goes to our church. Even more family is first, so we stay in the area to be close. Job often does not decide where we live, family is the priority. Powerful, helpful and loving: family. This includes multi-generational faithfulness.

 

History and today: we are Christians as called to be, no matter what persecution, hardship, unpopular, etc. In this we have a strong spiritual commitment and responsibility to the church both for our congregation and the church beyond us.

 

We share opinions. We are clear, we do have our opinions. We are open, up front, respectful—but very clear and strongly opinionated directly with the person (not behind people’s back). It is fine to disagree, we will listen to one another, we will strive to work it out, and we may continue to disagree in Christian love and respect.

 

We will be financially solvent as a congregation; financial stewardship is expected.

 

We are blessed with strong leaders in our congregation and with many people willing to put time and effort in service for the benefit of all of us and for people beyond our church.

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