The Johnstown District

Rev. Charles R. Fowler, District Superintendent

Office: 814-361-2464 Office Fax: 814-361-2465 Email: CFowler7@earthlink.net

Meet The DS

Rev. Charles R. Fowler, District Superintendent

“Writings from off the Sanctuary Wall” ~ October's Article
HOSPITALITY

Dr. Fred Craddock, tells a story of a church that lost track of the importance of hospitality. Sadly, it was a congregation he once pastored, early in his ministry. It was located in the hills of Eastern Tennessee.

Years later, Fred returned to that community and he brought his spouse, Nettie, along for the ride, for she had never seen the church. The nearby Oak Ridge National Laboratory was expanding, and individuals and families were moving into the area. Fred, the young pastor fresh from seminary, urged the people of this white-frame church to call on the newcomers, inviting them to church.

“They wouldn’t fit in here,” was the curt reply. A week later, there was a congregational meeting. “I move,” said one of the longtime members, “That in order to be a member of our church, you must own property in the county.” The motion passed, over Fred’s objections.

When Fred and Nettie pulled up to the old church building, years later, it looked to be very busy. Busier than he remembered…In his words.

“The parking lot was full, motorcycles and trucks, cars and vans were jammed in. And out front, a great big sign: “Barbecue, all you can eat.” It’s a family restaurant, so we went inside. The pews were against a wall. They have electric lights now, and the organ was pushed over into a corner. There are all these aluminum and plastic tables and people sitting there eating barbecued pork, chicken, or ribs, all kinds of people, different races, wearing all kinds of clothing, young and old, single folk and families. God’s people. I said to Nettie, “It’s a good thing this is not still a church, otherwise God’s people couldn’t be in here.”

How is your church at practicing hospitality?

This month, read the article on leadership and monkey business in this current issue. As we vision for ministry and mission this fall, you may find the information helpful.

Blessings,
Chuck Fowler

(The opinions expressed in this newsletter are not always that of God’s nor the General Conference of the United Methodist Church)