One of the best things that happened for our congregation while I was on sabbatical had nothing to do with me. We sent out a mission team to Webster Springs, WV. What a great moment for our congregation, that significant ministry did not come to standstill during that time! It says so much about what\u2019s important in our congregation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Missions and Outreach committee met this past week, and one of the questions they have for the coming year is this: Do we want to do another mission trip? I certainly hope the answer is yes, because I am hoping to go!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mission trips fall into two basic categories: work trips<\/strong>, and outreach trips<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Outreach trips<\/strong> tend to focus on program \u2013 worship services, Vacation Bible School, other ministry events, etc., and they are usually done in places where churches lack the resources to do such ministry ventures. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Work trips<\/strong> are different. When Jesus shares the parable of the sheep and the goats, he says this about those who do God\u2019s work,<\/p>\n\n\n\n Then the righteous will answer him, \u2018Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?\u2019 The King will reply, \u2018Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.\u2019 -Matthew 25:37 <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n This is why we do work trips \u2013 to help those who need help, and in so doing, we model the love of Christ to them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are interested in a mission trip this summer, please let me know. <\/strong>At the March mission and outreach committee meeting we will decide if we are able to do a trip this year. We will likely go back to Webster Springs. A few years ago, that area was inundated with heavy rainfall that resulted in massive flooding that caused extensive damage. The need for repair is still great. If you are interested in a trip like this, please email me<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s very exciting to see this kind of ministry in the life of our church, and I am eager for it to continue. I look forward to hearing from you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Blessings,<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pastor John<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Know. Grow. Serve: CTPC is a mission-oriented church – helping those who need help, and in so doing, we model the love of Christ to them. Interested? Continue reading