LOVE AND ACCEPTANCE

What is your 'aura?" What kind of energy surrounds you? Are people drawn to you in any particular way? Are people repelled by you? We often hear about our "aura" and the ways in which we present ourselves to one another. There are negative and positive forces in and around each of us and the energy we harness affects not only us as individuals but those around us as well.

I believe that organizations have "auras" too, especially churches. I've been to a few churches where a negative energy was expelled having an effect on my decision to return there. I've also known others where the energy level was extremely positive leaving me with a feeling of acceptance, joy, and love. What is the "aura" of St. Gregory's? When visitors enter our sanctuary for the first time, what is their experience? I can tell you unequivocally that St. Gregory's exudes such a positive "aura" that others are attracted and drawn into this joyful and loving community of faith not always found in every church. Your energy says to others that you accept them with open arms and you are a church full of Christ's love. You truly live into your mission statement of Transforming Hearts and Community through Jesus' Love.

How do I know this? Because I witness it every day. Just last week, an individual who was going through a serious personal matter phoned the church upon the recommendation from a friend. This person was desperately seeking a church which could offer acceptance and understanding, and most of all, Love. That individual has since attended a worship service and has found a new church home in St. Gregory's having experienced St. Gregory's "aura" first-hand. I'm so proud to serve on the staff of this great beacon of Hope and Light called St. Gregory's Episcopal Church. YOU are Transforming Hearts and Community through Jesus' Love by making a positive difference in people's lives each and every day.

-Tim Brumfield, Director of Music Ministries, Organist, and Choirmaster