Some seasons drift gently from one month into the next. Others arrive all at once, feet first and calendar full. July brought us joy, renewal, and the deep gladness of watching our youth and children go further in faith. August now rises to meet us, full of movement and meaning.
Psalm 84 begins with a simple meditation: “How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts! My soul longs, indeed it faints, for the courts of the Lord.” (Ps. 84:1-2)
That’s real. It feels especially true this month as our Yates Orchestra and Choir return to worship leadership. Something rises in us when those Ministers of Music return. Our gathering becomes fuller and hearts sing even louder than our voices do! I’m grateful for Keith’s leadership and for the many hands and voices that stir our longing into praise.
Community in Motion
In July, we celebrated Jane Williams in an ordination service. On Aug. 24, we’ll commission Joanne Noel and the CDC team in worship as they begin a new academic year. The building hosts learning and worship side by side.
From Aug. 5-9, the Triangle Nonprofit & Volunteer Leadership Center will stage its annual Backpacks4Kids initiative in the Yates gym. Volunteers from across Durham will assemble school-ready backpacks for children whose families need extra support.
On Saturday, Aug. 23, the Youth and Children’s Ministries will host a church-wide day at Jordan Lake. The next day, Aug. 24, we’ll continue that joy in worship, celebrating the CDC’s new school year, and gathering that evening for a Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway and Cookout at 4:00 PM.
From Strength to Strength
Psalm 84 closes: “The Lord bestows favor and honor…Blessed is the one who trusts in you.” (vv. 11-12)
That’s the blessing I see across this month. We’re choosing to trust in motion. From July to August, from communion to community, from music to meals to ministry, we go from strength to strength.
Grace and Peace,