The Episcopal Church family has been a central part of our family for generations. It is a gathering place filled with spirit and tradition. And, as we approach the holiday season, I recall my earliest memories were about those traditions: greening the church, hayrides, singing carols, preparing for the children’s pageant, the beautiful advent wreath on our kitchen table, and Christmas midnight mass.
For us now, Christ’s Episcopal Church is not simply a place; it is something greater. It is a family where everyone is always welcome and has a place at God’s table. Communion brings together those with us today, those who have gone before us and those who will follow. As our oldest daughter said, “The Church helps me to see where I have come from and shapes where I will go.”
She says: When we moved here, I wanted to join a church where our family could make new friends. We found Christ’s Episcopal Church on the Internet. It had deep local roots – 100 years in Castle Rock – yet had just built a brand-new sanctuary. As soon as we walked through the door we felt at home: friendly people, familiar rites, amazing, funny, thought-provoking sermons, and joyful music. Most important? Our son is learning about God’s unconditional love and making friends who share that experience.
He says: I’m an entrepreneur, and I want a church that encourages those of us who spend our lives asking why and how. I also want my son to enjoy church, not be bored, and to learn practical life lessons. At Christ's Episcopal Church, we’re each challenged to make the world a better place.
We have been married for 35 years. We have been in business for ourselves for over 30 years and raised four great kids and somehow maintained a solid base for our family. When our kids were growing up, we always put our family first. That commitment plus our faith and prayers gave us the positive strength that supported us. We have always “re-minded” ourselves of that essential priority.
The tension between your work life and the rest of your life is a balancing act. In order to maintain that, you have to set your priorities, and constantly renew your strength.
Christ’s Church provides The Sanctuary for this to happen. We have found that Prayer does change things!
