In my searching through the archives, I found a printed church invitation. It has Glen Rinard’s picture on it as the pastor, so I’m guessing, given the time he was pastor at NFC, that this is somewhere around 1959. Here’s part of what it said:
Our purposes:
To present the good news of Christ in such a way that people will be led to seek and find Him in a satisfying, transforming spiritual experience.To have in all of our meetings for worship an atmosphere in which those who enter will be influenced to be aware of the presence of God and to receive His grace.
To provide opportunities for Christian fellowship and service where all who will participate may be helped and enabled to give help to others in Christ-like ways.
To promote peace and active helpfulness in every area of human relationships by bringing people to practice the principles of Christ.
To cooperate with other churches and organizations in seeking to promote the welfare of all in the entire community.
Almost 50 years ago, several key words appear that will consistently re-appear in future articulations of NFC’s mission: “transforming,” “presence of God,” “fellowship,” “service,” “peace.” The constant theme of concern for the entire community is also seen again. What are some things you notice in these words from half a century ago?
The phrase “active helpfulness in every area of human relationships” stands out to me. Perhaps because it speaks to my desire to DO. It also confirms that each action that we do to help those around us is important, from bringing a meal to a new mother to holding and praying with a friend as they grieve for a loved one. We all can be “actively helpful” in so many ways when we choose to look around for the needs of others. I strongly feel that this isn’t limited to the able-bodied or younger-aged members of the congregation. Each time I hear the witness of some of our older member at NFC, I am awed and inspired to keep practicing the principles of Christ.
It doesn’t say Quaker anywhere. But it is Quakerly in its content and some of the phrasing.
When did y’all stop calling Sunday morning services “meeting for worship”?