A Word from Ray — August

In my most recent conversation with an inquiring congregation, the question was raised: “Why would we join the Fellowship?” This was not the first time that I have received this question or something similar to it. Questions like, “What does the TFC have to offer us?”  or, “What will we gain from joining with this group?” I have to admit, at times I just cringe when I hear these questions. I get it. I understand why they are asking, at least in part, but still I cringe. Maybe you do too.

Part of the reason why I cringe is because the answer to this question is not well spelled out. I mean, there are tangible things that you can gain from being a part of TFC, but in part, it is much more deeply felt and experienced than it is communicated or sold. The answer is much better understood after spending a week together at the National Gathering or sitting beside one another at a local presbytery meeting. It is a fuller expression of comradery that speaks volumes to the question of what is there to gain. How have you felt and experienced the benefits of this community?

This week, I was reminded of the importance in the redundancy of our name. The Fellowship Community was something that I fully experienced this week as I sat bedside with my daughter, recovering from surgery, while getting texts of prayers and encouragement. Last month, I was reminded of the fellowship within our Fellowship as nationwide colleagues cheerfully gave to support a mission opportunity for our family in Philadelphia. Last night, the significance of community was on full display as nearby Presbyterian churches reached out with their inquiry, seeking a place of belonging with like-minded family of faith, amidst anxiety and concerns related to the outcomes of this summer’s General Assembly.

Friends, together we are a group of wounded, weary, sinful saints that cling to a common hope in Jesus Christ, tied together by our mutual love for His bride and specifically the household of faith known as Presbyterians. Together we find value in gathering for encouragement and equipping. We find joy in celebrating God’s grace together while also carrying the burdens of colleagues together. TFC is so much more than “community” and yet that is essential to who we are. We are a people that gather, occasionally on Zoom and screens, with frequency in person and side by side, while continually gathering in prayer. TFC, you are honestly the reason why many of us have held on through some difficult times and continue to this day to call our denomination home.

As I close, I thought I would share three resources that I have found encouraging this summer as we prepare to launch into a new season of ministry in the fall. Each of these books have given reason for pause, intentional thought, heart exploration, and confession before the Father. If you find yourself reading any of the three and you’d like to chat more about them, even dream about application together, I would be happy to be on the other end of that conversation with you.

Pastor Ray Garcia

Ray Garcia is pastor of Roxborough Church in Philadelphia, PA and serves as The Fellowship Community’s Coordinator for Connections and Recruitment.