June 4 is starred and circled and pinned on my calendar as a benchmark moment in the life of our church. It is, of course, Pentecost Sunday, when we celebrate the birth of Christ’s church and the unleashing of God’s spirit into the world — howling, rushing, breathing new life in even the darkest corners of our living. I’m certain that this sweet, sweet Spirit will be among us both in worship that morning which promise to be festive and meaningful, and in the Special Committee on Facilities and Mission’s presentation that night at 5:00 p.m. in Kelly Auditorium. I can’t stress enough how important it is for you and your family to be present that evening, as we discuss this significant moment in our current and future story as a beloved community. Please join us!
The Spirit of God has been moving with the Special Committee these past 18 months, shaping and calling and nudging and transforming us into a more bold and faithful people. We are so excited to share our findings with you all, and I share now some snippets of reflection on our work together from these 13 wonderful folks.
Looking back over the evolution of the last 18 months, I immediately hum, “To God Be the Glory, Great Things He has Done! — Annice Hogsette
We have studied the needs of the Church and are making recommendations that we believe will best position our Church to devote our efforts and resources more effectively to accomplish our mission of knowing Christ and making Him known, and to seek God’s will as best we can in the furtherance of His Kingdom.
— Martha Davis
Now, the time is right for us to move boldly with confidence in the Providence of God and as heirs to our history of innovation, leadership and compassion in doing the work of the Lord in Winston Salem. — Randy Peters
I have no doubt this process both honors the rich heritage of First on Fifth while also positioning our church to enjoy a healthy future. — Larry Hovis
I cannot fully express my excitement about what the future of First Baptist is going to be in downtown Winston-Salem, and I look forward to walking that journey with you. — Preston Cook
Our task has certainly been challenging, and the journey has seen many twists and turns, but our work together has only reaffirmed and deepened the conviction that God’s call and claim upon our congregation is as strong and compelling now as it has ever been. We at First on Fifth are awash in God’s grace. I’m so excited about the opportunity that lies before us to recommit our facilities and ourselves to loving God and neighbor, and to living out the Gospel in the midst of such a dynamic and changing city and a world beloved by God. — Mary Foskett
Together in the work of Love,
Pastor Emily