The Grieving Church Community

I can't believe in just a matter of weeks, this project will begin year number four. We've prayed over many things as they relate to community. Much emphasis and time has been given to the churches' and believers' impact on community. In recent weeks, we've prayed over community in terms of the family unit.

And sadly, I write this in need of prayer over the community of the local church.

Thanks to the influence of social media, some tragic news out of Southern Illinois came across my newsfeed. A 68 year old Baptist pastor was in car accident while en route to meet up with some members of the church. One of the church members responded to my inquiry; and while authorities haven't released details, his vehicle was found in a ditch-creek.

So, while many will be stepping into a church service tomorrow to celebrate the amazing life and influence of Mothers, one small community will be morning the loss of their Senior Pastor. I'm at a loss.

I've been a part of some great churches over the years. And they have been blessed with some incredible pastors, and staff; people of God and of the Word. High quality leaders and people who are dedicated and devoted to powerful and impactful ministry.

I don't know that one is ever prepared. Never emotionally at least. But I'm hoping and praying that systems and processes, plans and people are in place; that while the church grieves, ministry will not come to halt.

On this #communitySaturday, would you keep the people of United Missionary Baptist before the Lord. Pray that God would bring comfort and peace to this community and the community of believers. Pray for his wife and family during this time of mourning. Pray that the days and weeks to come would demonstrate the impact of his life, as many more come and come back to God as a result of his ministry and the relationships that he built and the effort that he put forth. Pray for the leadership of this church, and the decisions that need to be made as the church moves forward in its mission and ministries. May God grant them wisdom and discernment; bring clarity and direction in a time of mourning and grief.  Pray the love of God would be felt as a life is celebrated; not because of his greatness, but the greatness of the God He served with his life.

For we mourn with those who mourn,
And grieve with those who grieve,
But not as those without hope.
For in Christ, is eternal glory.
And that, of God our Father.

- PNC