We Need Church Now More Than Ever // M-Note 9.13.2025

It has been a hard week. Sunday, I am going to share some words about the events of this last week before my message, and I encourage you all to worship with us in person. But, there is also much to celebrate and anticipate right now at The Gathering.
 
Sunday, September 14th, The Gathering Metro East will have its first preview worship service. This is an important time to cast vision for the new site, meet neighbors, and introduce The Gathering to new people seeking a church. All of you are invited, and I hope that you will come to support what we are doing in the Metro East. Of course, if you know someone who lives in the Metro East, please bring them with you! Worship will be held at the Katy Cavins Community Center Pavillon in O’Fallon at 4pm.
 
This weekend, we will also be starting a new series on The Lord’s Prayer. Years ago, I used to lead a monthly worship service at a local assisted living facility. As the pastor, I would show up early, help people get to the chapel, and then lead worship. This facility had a memory care unit and many of those folks would join. Those of you who have had a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other memory issues know just how painful it can be. They often can’t remember simple things like the names of loved ones or what to do in worship. But, I noticed something powerful whenever we would get to the Lord’s Prayer. Suddenly, people who struggled to remember so much about their lives began reciting this prayer by heart. That is how deep and indelible a mark it leaves on those who know it.
 
At The Gathering, we say the Lord’s Prayer every week. But, it is easy for such things to become routine or rote. We recite the words, but we don’t stop to contemplate what they mean. So this weekend, we will begin reflecting on the most famous prayer in Christian history. It might surprise you what it has to say to us about how to pray, especially during times like this.
 
I am so grateful to be your pastor. We need communities of hope and resilience like the church right now. Worship this weekend will be powerful and important. I hope you plan to be there, and this would be the perfect time to invite a friend to join you. Have a great day, and I will see you in worship!
 
Peace,
Matt