Missionaries Commissioned

Today's commissioning service was such a great way to connect the congregation with our upcoming trips. Thanks so much to everyone involved. Several people talked to me afterward with good things to say about how it raised awareness and strengthened the participation by the congregation.

Thanks, especially to David, for stepping out of his comfort zone and sharing with us his heartfelt testimony. His sentiments about how God prepares us for these experiences, about how we must respond when he calls and about how we are changed in the process were inspirational and moving. I think the church is hungry for personal witness and David's thoughts captivated many church members.

Thanks, too, to the missionaries for standing up in front of everyone and for accepting the commission of the church. I know that many would rather not be in the limelight, but it's important for the congregation to know who is representing them and it will likely provide opportunities for talking about the trip after it is over. Thank you, as well, to Andy for the closing prayer.

For the record, here is the litany we used today:

Leader: Missionaries, do you believe that you have been led by the Holy Spirit to engage in this work, do you agree to hold Jesus Christ as your example and guide and do you make it your purpose to spread God’s love to those you serve?

Response of the Teams: I do, with the help of God.

Leader: In the name of Acton Congregational Church, I commend each of you to this work and pledge to you our prayers, encouragement, and support. May the Holy Spirit guide and strengthen you, that in this and in all things you may do God's will in the service of Jesus Christ.

Leader: Dearly beloved, I commend to you these persons whom we this day have commissioned to be God's servants as a part of the continual sharing of Christ's great commission on Earth.

Response of God's People: We rejoice to recognize you as missionaries from our church, and we thank God that you have dedicated your service to this mission. May the blessings of God go with you and keep you safe throughout your journey. May God’s grace go with you.