Dear First Church,

The word cloud above is from our First Church Forward presentation last Sunday. These are participants’ responses to the question, “When you think of First Church’s future, what single words come to mind?” The largest words are those repeated most. This tells us that while the way forward may be challenging, there is a strong sense that our community is open, loving, resilient, and committed — and the future is full of hope! If you missed the presentation, please let me know and I’ll get you a link to the recording.

Last week in worship, we also focused on the practice and meaning of Holy Communion, and I wanted to address a question I’ve gotten a few times recently: “Where are the tongs?” It’s true that we’ve stopped using the tongs to serve pre-cut bread, as we slowly transition back toward tearing pieces off of a common loaf. The primary reason is that when we serve with tongs, people tend to reach up and take the bread, accidentally touching the tongs with their fingers. When we serve with our hands and drop the bread into a waiting hand, no germs are transferred — it’s actually cleaner! It’s also more personal and meaningful to take that plastic out of the equation.

This week, as we continue our series What We Need Is Here, we turn from the sacrament to the presence and role of the Holy Spirit as we celebrate Pentecost! Wear your flame colors and come ready for the Spirit to move and inspire as we consider the story from Acts 2:1–21.

With you on the journey,
Pastor Elizabeth