We recently received an invitation to attend a special event which took place Saturday. Our neighbours’ 13-year-old boy was to have his Bar Mitzvah at the temple nearby, and we went somewhat timidly. Did we need hats? Will there be a collection? Should we take a gift with our card for Benjamin? Yes, a very special one.
What should I wear? A subdued blouse and skirt. But John? He put on a black cap from a tray. The ceremony was long, our young neighbour bravely reading from the Torah, and the temple ringing with chants led by a golden-voiced cantor. I thought of how our Lord loved to go to the synagogue with his parents.
That afternoon made vivid the connection of Jewish and gentile people.
We have been very fortunate to be able to attend our churches, and to stand up, without fear, for our Christian values. That afternoon reminded us again that we in COC must continue to uphold what is most precious in our United Church – the gift of orthodoxy, a gift inherited because of the sacrifices of so many before us.
Because you support the Community of Concern with your gifts – whether they be big or small – we can continue to remind our Church of all that it has proudly stood for over the years. We in COC work for this week after week. Will you help us with a donation, whether big or small? Our heartfelt thanks to the many of you who do, and we will continue to do our best to inform you and encourage you. Freely you have received; freely give.