Your Creator Church Sanctuary

​Dear Creator Family,  

As I reflect on our years together, so many happy years, I remember times of joy at weddings and baptisms, of homecomings and happy reunions. I remember sad times of letting go. We have shared some truly sad and strained times, especially our lonely year apart during the Pandemic. I remember times of confirming and commissioning–of sending out to do the work of God. I think about the Choir singing and the pews full of people searching for a deeper relationship with Christ. 
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Even today, I can feel the warmth of the sun on the pews, the sound of children laughing and the trucks applying their “jake-brake” in the middle of our worship service. The sirens outside on 360 and the descants indoors, lifting your voices in a cherished place to a purpose higher than anyone alone could achieve. The years have been full and good. 

It wasn’t too long ago that paint and nails were needed, and a new look was given to this House of God. A beautiful blue was applied to the rood wall (the wall where the Cross is mounted), bringing out the striking colors of our story-telling stained glass windows (Did you know the blue of Mary’s gown was mail-ordered from Germany??), and more updated whites and beiges brightened the portico. These improvements, involving attention and expense, reflect your devotion and love. 

Still, the last several years have been hard. Even with your physical and spiritual effort, I have seen our numbers decline and your energy falter.

I know that outside the Church, success is gauged by numbers, both people and dollars. I know that it is hard for you to fight the overwhelming and consistent pressure of the world to “fill the pews,” but that is not why I am here. I am here for you, you that are here. I am here so that you may find Christ and know that you are loved in a safe and glorious place. I am here to help you focus and be set free to open your spirit to His Spirit and accept the joy that is prepared for you.

It grieves me that some of you may be feeling afraid or saddened by our current parish statistics. Our numbers. Our dollars. That you feel despondent and powerless to effect a change that would lead others here to God’s embrace. I know that some feel that this is the end. Writing on the wall, and all that. But I do not.

I remember a time, long ago, that looked much like this time. I remember the hopes of the people then, and I know yours now. I am here as a testimony to the living God, and I have seen God change this place and each person in miraculous ways. Please hear me, I have faith in you. I will be here for God. For you. Here, so that you can find Jesus on your journey and know the joy that is contagious. This is not a journey of a Church, this is a journey of a single person. You.

You have done so much for me. You have cared for me for almost 60 years. I will not stop proclaiming the Risen Lord, knowing that His love changes all, and in Him all things are possible. It’s true, I can't wait for you to be in my pews again and find His presence within you. I rejoice even in the thought of your return. We are not “done.” For I am not done. I will never be done.  

It is as if I were built specifically and uniquely…for you. And as if Christ went to the cross specifically and uniquely for you. Because he did. And I was. 

I love you. Come sit in my pews. Walk my aisles. Let your praises ring out again. We will continue this journey together.

With enduring love,

Your Creator Church Sanctuary