Homecoming . . .

This past weekend our church here in Aliquippa had a homecoming to celebrate 93 years of existence. When I first heard about this homecoming celebration I honestly thought to myself, "what church has a homecoming celebration?!?!" I had never heard of something like that before. But then again, I have never been a part of a church that has 93 years of history. It started Friday night with a traditional style hymn singing service. Saturday night, there was a dinner banquet, where I won an award for answering a question about the history of the church! Actually, I cheated and the secretary gave me the answer. I am justifying it by giving away my fall gift basket to one of the ladies we have Bible Study with :)

Then came Sunday. As the previous days, there were people from all generations represented at the service. The oldest member who returned for the weekend was 90 years old. Throughout the service, there were testimonies from the respected older generation speaking of their youth group days. They spoke of how his youth group leaders at the time would drive them all around and pick them up for meetings and such. Looking back on the days, he said he was confident that his leaders prayed a hedge of protection around him and the rest of the youth at the time. It was encouraging to hear, knowing 1) that some of our youth were sitting listening to this man and 2) it was again confirmation that our Lord does indeed water the seeds that are planted in His perfect timing.

The most powerful part of the service, however, was at the end. There was an invitation by our leadership for everyone to come to the front and pray life into our community. At the alter, there were elderly men and women, young men and women, youth, and children. We started out praying individually and silent, but was then challenged to pray out loud. The voices and tears of many were spoken in boldness to the Lord. Aaron Schust led us in a time of worship following prayer. I took time to look up and see the body of Christ worshipping as one; crying together and singing together. It was a beautiful display of the Kingdom and His Majesty. To Him be the glory! Amen and Amen.


Love Deeply