On October 19 and 20th, our church celebrated five years as a congregation. It is amazing how time flies when you’re having fun. But this recent fall weekend was a highlight in food, fun, fellowship and looking back at who God is and all He has done.
The weekend’s activities began with a Saturday night potluck dinner, full of games, sharing and laughter. The German American Cultural Society of Rhode Island in Pawtucket was the location of this exciting event. Loads of food was brought in and the large venue worked out well for this festive evening. Following dinner, Steve and Alexis Schnell led us through two group games – a memory competition and Rhode Island trivia. Tables discussed, guessed and learned some interesting facts. Throughout the weekend, several visiting dignitaries shared their one word for what the church means to them and why. Both Nic Connor and Daniel Gifford took the stage on Saturday to share about “family” and “persistence.” Then Leo Mella does what only Leo can do as a DJ. Music and dancing of all sorts concluded our night together.
On Sunday, October 20, over 150 people showed up at Rhode Island College to worship God. The worship team was in exceptional form, leading us through songs like “Better is One Day,” “Agnus Dei,” and “Men Who Dream.” Alden Andrade and Mechelle Newman came all of the way from California to deliver the welcome. Their words were “home” and “gratitude.” Hector Morales III, a Brown graduate, shared about “devotion” and also led the opening prayer.
Kevin and Gloria Mahoney journeyed back from Worcester to share prior to communion. Gloria spoke of “love” and Kevin compared his life to the demon possessed man in Mark 5. He talked about how Jesus always makes all the difference.
The lesson for the day had two points – So Far, So God and The Best Is Yet To Come. A fantastic video created by Sam and Jiayin Saarinene re-traced the past 5 years, causing smiles and misty eyes. David and Lori Seavey closed out the day with their words – “growth” and “nurturing.”
We praise God for the first five years, but – by crazy faith – look forward to the future with excitement and hope.
