Pastors’ Column

Each week one of our pastors or staff members writes a column observing what is going on in our congregation, the Church and the world, and offering reflections on the Christian life and faith. Through this series of columns, we hope to connect your and our story to the enduring story of Christ; to offer pastoral reflections on our ongoing congregational life and mission; to report on news of the Presbyterian Church and Church universal; and to invite further reflection and deeper discipleship. We welcome your comments and suggestions. In other words, our words here are an invitation to continue the conversation.

Great Things Happen When We Come Together

the Rev. Rachel Pedersen June 4, 2015

"Great things happen when we come together" are the opening words for this year's Vacation Bible Camp theme song. The words have been a constant companion for the past few months. Although they have become rote, the sentiment has not. From June 22nd- 26th, we will welcome more than 110 children to our campus... and great things are going to happen! Over half of them are under the age of six and more than a third are not church members. What will they experience at VBC?

Calling a Pastor

the Rev. Dr. Agnes W. Norfleet May 28, 2015

After the search committee interviewed Dick Wohlschlaeger for his position as Interim Pastor for Senior Adults and Pastoral Care, one member of the committee said, “There was a moment in which it seemed like the Holy Spirit just entered the room.”

All Together In One Place

the Rev. Dick Wohlschlaeger May 21, 2015

This Sunday we will hear again the familiar story from the second chapter of The Acts of the Apostles about the Spirit coming upon the twelve disciples and all those others gathered in Jerusalem fifty days after Jesus' Resurrection. It's the story of Pentecost, the day we celebrate as the birthday of the Christian Church.

Confirmation

the Rev. Rachel Pedersen May 14, 2015

Last Saturday, I was distracted from an exciting conversation at our Mission Summit when my eye was caught by the procession of bright purple robes as Harcum Students lined up for graduation. The night before, students from Eastern University were spilling into the Sanctuary for their Baccalaureate address. Over the next few weeks, we’ll celebrate as the four year old pre-Kindergarten class graduates from the Weekday School. I’m sure many of you will be celebrating high school graduations, college graduations and more.

Saying Goodbye

the Rev. Nicole Duran May 7, 2015

Saying goodbye is hard and summing up two years of ministry is harder. Partly I want to brag about all the wonderful things we have managed to do together in this short time. Mostly, I just want to say thank you, in such a way that you will know how deeply grateful I am for this time.

Appreciation for Nicole Duran

the Rev. Dr. Agnes W. Norfleet April 30, 2015

Nicole Duran is beginning to wind down her work with us at BMPC as our Temporary Supply Associate for Adult Education and Mission. We will celebrate her ministry among us in worship and at a reception following the 10:00 service on Sunday, May 10, in the gymnasium where the Confirmation Class’s Windows into Faith (WIF) projects will also be on display.

So Much to Share

Donna Barrickman April 23, 2015

It’s been a particularly busy time at our church. Over the past week, the whirlwind included a memorial service for the Rev. Dr. David Watermulder, Pastor Emeritus; a Progressive Worship Walk into the city; the ordination of our new church officers; three baptisms; a brunch to honor 50+ year members; a Community Forum about racism; and a presentation by Doug Tallamy about sustaining wildlife with native plants. These were all memorable experiences for those involved, and I was reminded – once again – how fortunate we are to be part of this church. How lucky we are to share the company of such caring, inspiring people. How blessed we are to be part of a church family that offers so many wonderful opportunities to enrich our lives in faith.