We have been prayerfully waiting for this weekend of dedication and commitment. Now we are preparing to cross a Bridge to the Future. We introduced this theme in the appeal packets that were made available to the congregation in early April. As explained in the brochure, funds from this campaign will be used to
Now is the time to decide how we will respond to this challenge in light of the current and future opportunities that the new building has made possible.
Weekend activities will begin with a prayer vigil on Saturday, May 17. The nave will be open from 9 a.m. 2 p.m. and 4:30 6 p.m. for prayer throughout the day. This will be a time to reflect on God's many blessings for each of us and for our church. It will be an informal service. The day will end at 6:00 p.m. with the Taizé Prayer and Eucharist.
Worship services at 8:30 and 10:50 a.m. on Sunday, May 18 will include our Bridge to the Future appeal and the dedication of the new Ministry Building. The Rev. Kenneth C. Larson, founding pastor of Christ the King Church, will preach at both services. We are truly blessed to have his presence at the building dedication and commitment service for the funding campaign. Pledge cards will be received at the conclusion of each service of worship.
An appeal festival will be held between services to celebrate our new building and the results of the Bridge to the Future campaign. It will feature special food and fellowship, activities for children and families, and an open house to showcase our beautiful building and all the phenomenal activities, education, and services flowing through and from it. Each commission, committee, interest group, and class is invited to participate by setting up a display, exhibit or demonstration of their choosing. Call or e-mail Gaelyn Lesher for more information and to coordinate a location for your display.
At 5:00 p.m. the Bach Choir and Orchestra, under the direction of Peter Kopp, will present Cantata 44: "Sie werden euch in den Bann tun" by Johann Sebastian Bach, Kyrie and Gloria by Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy, Psalm 98 "Singet dem Herrn ein neues Lied" by Heinrich Schütz, and Singet dem Herrn ein neues Lied by Hugo Distler.
This is an important time for the congregation of Christ the King Church, a time to reflect on our blessings, share them with one another, and prepare for a journey together on our Bridge to the Future. Please join us in reflection and celebration this weekend.
Our guest preacher, Pastor Kenneth C. Larson, came to Houston in 1945 and with a handful of people and a borrowed room in a schoolhouse, founded Christ the King Lutheran Church. More about the founding days appears later.