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Dear Members and Friends of Immanuel,
“Lo, I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet.” 1 Corinthians 15:51-52a. These are just two verses of Paul’s from chapter 15 on The Resurrection of Christ. The twinkling of an eye is a delightful way
to describe the exciting change which will take place in the mystery of resurrection.
However, most change is really happening slowly, more like the pace of a flower. It is only when we first notice the emergence of green buds midst the browns of fading winter that we suddenly exclaim “Oh, the tulips are coming up!” We think change has come upon us quickly.
The apostle Paul states in Romans 8:28 that “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.” I take that to be a promise
that God is working for good at all times with God’s church, ours and the church in the world.
A couple of areas that God is at work blatantly at Immanuel are Hospitality, Mission and Worship. In the “twinkling of an eye” Janilee McLeod, our Worship and Music Director, resigned for family financial reasons. For many of us who apply ourselves to that ministry of the congregation, it was disheartening. I, along with the Worship and Music Committee, saw this as an opportunity. Change is happening. It’s time to be still, so we can sense what God is doing and cooperate with that.
Therefore, we will take some time to assess our music ministries. We will begin a 4-6 week period of self-study, during which we will be praying and listening for what God is calling us to do. Phyllis Huber has accepted our invitation to add her guiding voice to our discussions of Immanuel’s worship journey. We believe that her expertise and perspective will help us discern the best direction for our worship & music ministries.
We begin this listening on March 2nd. By Easter we hope to have a better idea of where God is leading our music ministry. Some of you may be asked to participate in the discernment process. You are all invited to share your thoughts and ideas about worship by emailing/calling Ike Marks, Chair of Worship and Music at ikeick789@gmail.com (406)544-4039 or Jim Bendickson at jimbendickson@gmail.com (406) 728-1225. During this time of assessment the 9am worship service music will be noticeably different while the 11am worship remains as is.
In the area of Hospitality and Mission, or in Jesus words—the poor, vulnerable, those without food and shelter—Immanuel is getting ready to participate in face to face compassionate care of homeless families. Please read the Council Minutes regarding FAMILY PROMISE. Again, it’s not a sudden decision, but it may not be one you have taken particular notice of until now.
“Oh Lord, let us be still and know you: the wonders of the mighty works that you do. Thank you for what you are currently doing at Immanuel, even in what seems the twinkling of an eye. Grant us grace to hold to your promises, rely on your wisdom and be present in these moments when you are doing something new through us.”
Peace, Pr. Aprille