The Gem by the Sea

Here ye..Here ye….Do you hear the call of the ocean?   The bell tolling?  The enticing smells of a busy kitchen?   The hymnal music warmly greeting you?  A day of worship is beginning at this gem by the sea called Short Beach Union Church.  In this welcoming haven, you can grow in relation with God. This is not a preset journey or path.  Here you are encouraged to imagine your spiritual relationship as a living, breathing entity, to consider an alternative obedience, outside the definitions of reality by established powers, to the simple and basic teachings of Jesus Christ. 

This spiritual reckoning appeals to me, perhaps because I was raised non-denominational.  Society is uncomfortable with this lack of classification, a label is required, a box to check needed.  Jesus would not, could not be categorized and filed nicely and quietly away.  The freedom to explore varied aspects of religion through the nuanced lenses of politics, economics, history and idealogy has deepened and strengthened my relationship with the Trinity.  The Bible Study discussions have enlivened and enlightened.  It is a rare experience to talk about these things that take us to a vulnerable place  and to grow by questioning in an accepting, non-judgmental environment and even more exceptional that together solace in our common humanity is found.   So next Sunday, take a drive, feed your soul and body, stretch your personal spiritual relationship and join us in response to the call of Jesus Christ, to love and to serve.

Alieta Lynch