There is a wonderful and fascinating energy around this word. Former students of Graceland University often look forward to returning to “the Hill” on significant anniversaries of the graduating class: five years, ten, twenty-five, and so on. Recently one of our CEM pastors returned for his fiftieth class reunion. It is wonderful to see old friends, former roommates, and perhaps even a favorite professor or two.
Senior High camp, 2009 had as its theme, “My Camp, My Community.” One of the ideas expressed around that theme is the expectation that campers will be going off into the world, but will always be expected back to this community. “We will be here for you, and you will always be welcomed home.” It is a great concept.
Yesterday, Brantford congregation celebrated their fiftieth anniversary in the current location, and several years more as a congregation. It was billed as Brantford’s Homecoming, and indeed, many former members and associates as well as friends from neighbouring congregations returned for the day. I think it is safe to say that a good time was had by all as they celebrated in worship and fellowship together. The old building had been spruced up for the occasion, and there was energy around the ideas of moving into the 21st century. It was a good day.
Homecoming breathes the idea of coming back to somewhere that is or was our spiritual home for a time. Where is that for you?
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3 months ago
For me Carmen, Homecoming was finding You, and Darrell and Rod. It brought back memories of all the people who touched my life while I was growing up. It reminded me of the Church and the roll it played in my upbringing. It made me terribly homesick. I can't tell you how much it's changed me just in the few weeks its been since I found you all.
ReplyDeletePaula,
ReplyDeleteAssuming the impact of those changes have been positive, this is a very lovely thing to say. Thank you for making the effort to get in touch with us! May you continue to feel the warmth of home.