Our Calling

There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them.  There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.  There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.
-I Corinthians 12:4-6

When we say “Yes” to accepting the gift of God’s love and salvation, we begin the work of growing more like Christ.  God equips us with spiritual gifts and calls us to use them to share God’s love, mercy, justice, and compassion in the world.  This Sunday, we will have a combined worship service at 10am and our Annual Congregational Meeting.  It is a wonderful day of celebrating the work God does here at Kennewick First Presbyterian Church.  We will also elect new church officers and ordain and install them in the worship service.

Our Ordination Vows are the same, whether you are ordained as a Deacon, a Ruling Elder, or a Minister of Word and Sacrament (Teaching Elder).  My favorite vow is “Will you serve the church with energy, intelligence, imagination and love?”  God equips us and calls us to serve with joy, not out of obligation.  God wants us to use our gifts and creativity as we serve the church and one another.  God calls and we say, “Yes, Lord.  I will serve you here in this way, using all my gifts and talents.”  May we all find joy in service.  May we experience God’s presence through our energy, intelligence, imagination, and love.

This winter, we will explore specific ways we can work for justice in the world, love others with mercy, and walk humbly with God.  I hope you join us in worship as we walk with God on this journey.

Faithful God, in baptism you claimed us; and by your Holy Spirit you work in our lives, empowering us to live a life worthy of our calling.  Forgive us for not using our gifts to further your kingdom on earth.  Forgive us for neglecting to love our neighbors and care for all your children.  Establish us in your truth, and guide us by your Holy Spirit, that in your service we may grow in faith, hope, and love, and be faithful disciples of Jesus Christ, to whom with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and forever.  Amen