Home in Altoona

Stayed pretty close to home today for worship in Altoona UMC.  Knowing it would be a huge service I was hesitant to ask Pastor John if I could speak, but did anyway as I wanted to share my pride and excitement for all that is happening through this congregation.  Knowing they had just received over $65,000 for their turkey dinner last month and the excitement for mission this had generated made it a no-brainer to go in person to offer my thanks and encouragement for even greater things for the kingdom of God.  And so I did, and John was gracious to allow me a slice of time at the 9:40 AM service. 

The church as usual was filled to overflow and there were 40 folks in the choir along with a full orchestra.  It was an amazing worship experience. With min-sermons coming like waves washing over the congregation.  Perhaps best of all were the children singing and dancing.  After the violence of the past week we were all soggy eyed by the authentic worship of the children.  Perhaps best of all for me was a young girl who shared a ballet as the choir sang and orchestra played which disarmed everyone.  We all became like children in our hearts as she danced our dance in front of God and the world.   

If you visit prepare for amazing as the Spirit is moving in significant ways.  You can contact them or take just look at http://altoonaumc.org/  They are planning to live stream the services in the near future which may allow them another way of growing the kingdom without moving bricks and mortar.  If you are currently without a church home consider Altoona UMC as a possibility for Christmas Eve.