Laity Sunday is October 20, and Ken Dowell encourages churches to celebrate the ministry of laity and watch for the new things God is preparing us for.

KEN DOWELL
Greater Detroit District Associate Lay Leader

As a summer of family outings, sports, vacations, and preparing for school shifts to starting school, participating in or watching different sports, and looking ahead to the holidays, it is natural to anticipate something new in what we do. Likewise, the church shifts from a summer worship schedule and vacations to a full schedule of meetings and a focus on Advent. We are always shifting.

Though we constantly shift, God calls us not to repeat the past but to look for the “new” He is preparing for us. As we look and listen, the “new” we discover may not be exactly what we expected.

We should dare to shift as called. As laity in our United Methodist connectional church environment, we need to work with others to be most effective. Individuals in local church settings can work together on neighborhood needs. Others are called to use their talents for the good of various district and conference committees.

I challenge you to do your part — look, act, and celebrate the “new” you discover. Let us continue to “Rise Up! And Retain the Spirit’s Good and Beautiful Things” — this year’s Laity Sunday theme — as we shift to new and exciting work in our churches for the transformation of the world.

Churches are encouraged to celebrate the ministry of laity in their congregations on Laity Sunday, which is suggested for October 20. Churches can choose another more suitable date. Click here to download worship resources from Discipleship Ministries for this Sunday.

Last Updated on October 16, 2024