I’ve always loved the way Christine Pohl describes the beauty and power of Christian community in her book Living into Community. She writes, “The quality of our life together and the character of our shared life, as congregants, communities, and families, has the power to draw people to the kingdom or to push them away.”
That’s a sobering and inspiring truth.
But we know that building community isn’t easy. It’s hard to start, and even harder to sustain. There are plenty of reasons for this – our desire for convenience, our fear of commitment, our weariness or wounds. Community asks something of us. It takes time and patience, forgiveness and grace.
And yet, when we commit to one another, when we carry each other’s burdens, show up in joy and in pain, and extend kindness and generosity even when it would be easier to withdraw – that becomes a witness. It speaks louder than words. It becomes a glimpse of the kingdom.
Jesus prayed that our unity and love would be so real, so visible, that others would come to know and believe in him (John 17). That’s both an incredible calling and a humbling one.
As we look ahead to a new ministry year, let me invite you to reflect: What might it look like for you to lean into community at Redeemer West Side this season?
Whether you’re new and hoping to connect, feeling a bit disconnected after some time here, or a long-time leader running on fumes – none of us moves towards community on our own strength. We need God’s help. We need the Holy Spirit to soften our hearts, to give us courage, and to stir us in a willingness to move toward one another – again and again.
Let’s ask for that help together. And as we do, may we find ourselves building and sustaining something together – not perfect, but real. Rooted in Christ, shaped by grace.
With hope,
Jamie
New Leaders and New Hosts
In preparation for the new ministry year, a season where we are welcoming many newcomers into our church, we are asking for all of you to get excited with us and help us launch new pilot community groups! Please take a moment to think: who has a welcoming spirit and places their trust in the word of God? Who has been a great encouragement to you in your own CG? And practically speaking, who might have space to have six or more folks over to hang out for a couple of hours? Please recommend someone you know (or volunteer yourself) to serve as a Pilot CG leader or host.
Moms Groups
Hey, moms! On September 10 and 11, our Moms Groups restart at the W83 Ministry Center. These groups aim to create an environment where moms are renewed in the gospel and can connect with other moms for support. Childcare enrollment is now open for little ones as well. Moms of kids who are old enough to drive as well as expectant moms are just as welcome to join in for Bible study, prayer partners, and mutual encouragement! Register on Wednesday or Thursday mornings here.
Upcoming
- Aug 13 | 9:39 Bible Study
- Aug 14 | Grief and Loss Support Group
- Aug 15 | Community Salsa
- Aug 20 | 20s & 30s Ice Cream Social
- Aug 24 | Church Picnic
- Sep 3 | Sing, Play, Speak
- Sep 5 | WSY Friday Night Youth Group
- Sep 23 | CFW Vocation Groups Launch Night
- Sep 26 to 28 | Lake Champion Fall Retreat Work Crew
- Sep 28 | New at RWS
Get Involved
Register your child for Kids’ Community Group.
Listen to songs from Redeemer West Side Music.
Sign up to serve the Church Family Meals at RWS.
Subscribe to the Neighborhood Engagement Newsletter.
Volunteer with HFNY this summer.
