From the beginning, it has been important to Spirit of Grace that the people are the church, not the building.  A building is a tool for ministry, just like a Bible, a guitar, or a crock-pot.  (What, you think I’d leave potlucks out?)  We are in the process of constructing an incredible tool for ministry at 413 West Ave!

At the same time, it has been common in our culture to use the word “church” to refer variously to a local congregation of people, an entire denomination, and a building that people meet in on Sundays.  The reuse of the word “church” has meant that in some places, the building takes on a life of its own.  We want to be a community where the building serves Christ’s mission.

Bishop deFreese has been fond of calling local congregations “mission centers.”  I think that term is fitting for us.  We want this new facility to be a center for God’s mission in Holdrege.

So what I’m proposing is this: let’s start trying to use the term “mission center” when we talk about the building.  If you hear me call it something else, correct me (gently!)  Old habits die hard, and it make take some of us a long time, but I think it would be a powerful testimony to the world to be Spirit of Grace Lutheran Church that meets throughout the week at the Spirit of Grace Mission Center.

May you know God’s love and care for you this week!

In Christ,

Pastor Ted Carnahan

P.S. – We’re trying out a minor update to our newsletter’s style this week.  I’m hoping it’s more concise and easier to find what you’re looking for.  Let me know what you think!

read the rest of the newsletter >