A Welcoming Lighthouse for ALL
A lighthouse emits beacons of welcoming light to those under duress. In maritime vernacular, storms and unforeseen circumstances could easily derail a sea voyage, blowing a ship off course. Lighthouses serve as landmarks, warnings of shipping hazards, and mark entry into ports. Ancient Egyptian lighthouses were bonfires set on hilltops or platforms which guided sailors to safety. In the Christian life, there are times in which the darkness of the world surrounds us, and we find ourselves struggling or lost. Sanctuary is found in Jesus, the Light of the world (John 8:12).
Lighthouse is a term often used for the church. As the body of Christ gathers to worship, share, and care for others, the church is a place of safety, sanctuary, and a locale for regaining one’s bearings in the storms of life. Local churches in the North Carolina Conference of the UMC are registering as lighthouse churches, committing to remain in the denomination and serve those who have lost their church homes through disaffiliation or closure.
KUMC stands as a “lighthouse church.” While there is no official process or designation to be a lighthouse church in the Upper NY Conference, we have chosen to serve as a lighthouse for those seeking safe harbor in this sad storm of disaffiliations. I imagine it’s very difficult for those who have decided to leave or have lost their church over the human sexuality issue. A church home is a place of deep emotional and spiritual meaning, a place of countless memories and relationships. In their loss, we are to respond as a light, as a supportive and comforting church for our sisters and brothers in the faith as they discern where to make their new church home.
Shine your light out, Kenmore UMC, for “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and gives light to all who are in the house.” (Matthew 5:14-16). So may the light of Christ brightly shine through you in welcoming ALL.
With Peace and Joy,
Pastor Becky
