Welcome to the family

Welcome to the Family!
As human beings, we have a longing for belonging. Our need to belong and fellowship with others has probably never been as recognized as it was during two years of social separation. Being disconnected from our biological or church families took a heavy toll on many. A person can have many acquaintances and be involved in numerous activities, but that's not the same as the feeling of belonging. Long ago, Jesus redefined God's new family plan when He said, "Anyone who does God's will is my brother and sister and mother (Mark 3:35)." Later the Apostle Paul assured the early Christians that being "in Christ" through faith made them part of the family of God and His household.
Today, God's household is the church. Everyone who is a follower of Jesus needs a church family with other faithful believers. That is not always easy to find! There may be times when you feel isolated, like a foreigner or stranger. Perhaps the church you are attending has not been as welcoming as you would have liked. Maybe you are even tempted to give up on it. If so, don't; there is no perfect church because there are no perfect people! But to be among God's family is His will and gift to us. Being an active part of a church family is crucial to your discipleship. Once you do find your place in God's family, you too must become an ambassador of Christ to welcome others. The benefit of belonging to God's family is a two-way street. So, welcome to the family; the secret to keeping the gift is learning to share it with others.  
Grace and Peace,
Fr. Greg+
 

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