Sunday Evening, August 23
This was a special Sunday evening service at our church focusing on our Church of the Brethren ministry in Maine. Ron (one of our preachers) was in charge of the evening program.
Jim and Lois Ann were part of the first group who moved to Maine to help develop a church fellowship in Lewiston – more than thirty years ago. He opened with devotions and shared a bit about their move from Pennsylvania to Maine, and the stroke he had several years ago that brought them back to Pennsylvania.
Jim shared how Church of the Brethren volunteer units in Maine eventually developed into church fellowships.
Zach and his wife, Monica, were last years house parents, and agreed to serve in Maine for another year. He gave an update on the past year and introduced the four volunteers who will be serving in the unit this year.
After a brief service, we went to the fellowship hall where there was more to learn about the ministry in Maine. Our granddaughter Elizabeth (left), who served in the unit last year, gave us a taste of African culture with a variety of samosa (meat filled pockets).
Lewiston is home to many immigrants, and The Root Cellar helps them adjust to the American culture. The volunteers also learn about of other cultures.
Jim and Lois Ann hosted the Maine Churches area where there were scrapbooks and slides. We currently have three church fellowships in Maine – Lewiston, Wales (where our daughter Diane, son-in-law Mark and their family attend), and Sanford.
Kezia (in black) was in charge of the children’s coloring section. She will be serving with the 2015-2016 Maine unit.
The Root Cellar is a location in Lewiston where our volunteers spend a lot of time. I understand the word “root” means to help develop roots.
Beverly (in navy) was stationed here to help answer our questions. She served in the unit for the 2014-2015 term.
Part of The Root Cellar’s mission statement is: We work together to provide empowering opportunties for the many children, teens and families in Downtown Lewiston.
A photo of Elizabeth (bottom left) during her time in Lewiston.
Two of the guys who will be with the 2015-2016 team began their time of service by recording encouraging greetings from our church to the churches in Maine.
It was an informative and interesting evening.