June 2016

Dear members and friends of Saint Andrew’s congregation:

During the month of June we are Celebrating 191 years of Presbyterian presence within the greater Fredericton area. An Anniversary Envelope is available and provides an opportunity for ongoing support beyond the regular weekly offerings.

I have noticed on the inside of the door in several businesses the following instruction. “Make sure door is unlocked during business hours.” One might wonder what event prompted the need for such advice. Perhaps one day an astute clerk noticed business was slow, and after some consideration checked the door. But the slow sales could also have been for a number of reasons, including unfriendly service, lack of advertised products, or no advertising at all. But we all agree that it is important that the door be unlocked.

It is not just the physical lock on the door that needs the attention of congregations but the need for openness and welcome. Our churches are blessed when others come to visit.

Usually they are unannounced. Perhaps they are visiting in the area with friends or family. Perhaps it is a business trip or perhaps they are looking for a church to call home.

St. Paul wrote instructions for the early church: Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honour…be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. (Romans 12:9-13)

Here at Saint Andrew’s hospitality and welcome often begin at curbside. Persons are made to feel welcome and are directed to parking spaces. They are sometimes assisted to overcome weather related conditions. A friendly greeter outside reflects how the people inside feel about welcoming. And that welcome extends beyond visitors to all members. Over the years Saint Andrew’s congregation has been blessed with caring and loving individuals. This is reflected in the small groups such as choir and Ladies Groups, and Board and Session. Saint Andrew’s is also home to a number of outside groups. Perhaps they are here on an ongoing basis or for a one-time event. They are an important part of our congregation and every effort is made to make them feel welcome.

Opening doors for business is important but opening the doors of our hearts is central to the life and work of the Church. Whether it is welcoming the refugee or a stranger from down the street. Whether it is a welcome extended to persons looking for a church home or someone looking for assistance, it is the nature of the church to be open. Open not only to those who are “like” us or who believe as we do, or act in the way we think they should. At the heart of the Gospel is an unconditional welcome extended to one and all.

And so the mission and witness of the church continues, sometimes in complex and difficult ways. But it always begins with the words of Jesus: Come unto me all…and I will provide rest. (Matthew 11:28)

May God’s love be fixed upon you, overshadow you with grace;
May God’s love stand firm beneath you, welcome you with glad embrace.
(Book of Praise #582, stanza 1)

Sincerely, and on behalf of Session and Board,
The Reverend D. E. Blaikie, minister