“It is not good that the man should be alone” (Genesis 2:18). The first thing that we hear in the Bible that is “not good” is loneliness. Adam had no companion. But God had a plan: He created Eve. And so began the first human community, marriage, family, and the multiplication of the human race.

God’s statement about Adam remains true in every age. It is not good for us to be alone. We need one another. We need support, conversation, and fellowship. We need shoulders to cry on. We need hands to high five when we’re celebrating. We need our fellow brothers and sisters in the Lord in this family of faith called the Church. We need good neighbors and community leaders. We need to see friendly faces wherever we go, from the hallways of our schools, to the checkout line at the grocery store, to the folks around us in worship and Bible study. We need one another! It’s how God has wired us as His human creatures – for community.

Beginning on Sunday, April 11 at 10:30 a.m., we’ll be starting a new Bible study experience called “Created for Community.” Each participant will receive a copy of Jane Fryar’s book by the same title. Each Sunday morning during the season of Easter, we’ll gather and chat about community – both in the life of the Church and beyond. We’ll learn more about how the Bible was written for Christians in community. We’ll realize that God does not call us to be “Lone Rangers” as we follow Christ, but to walk together. In fact, that’s what the word “Synod” means – “walking together.”

Let’s walk together as we renew our life of Christian community at St. Matthew. Let’s be intentional about fostering fellowship – it’s more important than ever before! The Covid-19 pandemic has had many challenging effects, one of which has been the lack of community life over the past year. Video-based options, such as live-streamed worship services, at least offer some degree of connection. However, there is no replacing face-to-face and side-by-side interaction with others, from our family members to the members of our church family.

In our Created for Community Bible study, we’ll gather in the Fellowship Hall each Sunday and consider a different aspect of fellowship and life together. Masks are welcome. Social distancing is encouraged. But your presence is especially important. It’s a step toward rebuilding our community life as Christ’s people. All youth and adults of the congregation are invited to participate!

On that note, another aspect of fellowship will be re-starting on Sunday, April 11 – Sunday School. This will be offered for children in Pre-K through 6th Grade immediately after the Sunday worship service from April 11th – May 23rd. If you have not done so already, please contact the church office or sign up in the entryway if your child will be participating in Sunday school. Please contact Amy Sharpe or the church office if you would be willing to assist with Sunday school in any way.

Last but not least, the Lord bless you this Holy Week and Easter as we gather together around Christ’s cross and empty tomb!

Blessed Easter,

                        Pastor Kory Janneke

(April 2021 Newsletter Article)