“Daddy, where is Gong Gong now?” my three-year-old asked as we watched her Chinese grandfather’s casket descend into the ground. He was a follower of Jesus and a pastor who deeply desired to be with Christ.
I struggled to answer, feeling a bit credulous, explaining that his lifeless body would one day awaken. I felt her confusion, telling her he was with Jesus now, even though he was there in that box. Yet, a “thrill of hope” lingered as I shared that Jesus would one day return to make what’s dead alive again.
She nodded without comprehension, and I smiled, quickly finishing my speech as the mourners began a hymn.
I think of that moment when we worship together as a church. As God’s children, we have limited understanding, hoping for a glimpse of his majesty, holiness, and love. We remind each other of the Gospel’s light in dark times and long to be changed so we can shine like candles in a cave, helping others find freedom in Christ.
When we gather for worship, we help one another believe the Gospel and grow in love for the broken world Jesus gave his life to save. Thank you for faithfully worshipping the Lord each week as together we “hold unswervingly to the hope we profess.” (Hebrews 10:23).
See you Sunday,
Chris
Sing, Play, Speak
Are you a vocational singer, instrumentalist, actor, or writer? Looking for an opportunity to share your work in front of a network of peers? Register for Sing, Play, Speak, a monthly gathering of working artists who follow Jesus in NYC, designed to create community and encouragement. Evenings include a meal followed by scheduled performances. Our first meeting is on Wednesday, September 3, at 6 pm. Click here.
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.
Upcoming
- Aug 20 | 20s & 30s Ice Cream Social
- Aug 24 | Church Picnic
- Aug 29 | Coffee Club
- Aug 30 | W83 Dashers
- Sep 3 | Sing, Play, Speak
- Sep 5 | WSY Friday Night Youth Group
- Sep 10/11 | Moms Groups
- Sep 23 | CFW Vocation Groups Launch Night
- Sep 26 to 28 | Lake Champion Fall Retreat Work Crew
- Sep 28 | New at RWS
Get Involved
RWS Job Opening: Youth Band Leader (Part-Time)
Register your child for Kids’ Community Group ASAP!
Join the RWS Prayer Team!
Listen to songs from Redeemer West Side Music.
Sign up to serve the Church Family Meals at RWS.
Subscribe to the Neighborhood Engagement Newsletter.
Pray for our city with HFNY.
