Joe’s BBQ By Pastor Joe

We have begun our fifth season of Joe’s Barbecue. For those of you who are not aware of this in-house ministry, we meet on Sunday nights and enjoy a meal together. We are starting later than normal, but we feel confident we can accommodate everyone before the leaves change colors. Since we have our new home, and a larger area to entertain, we will be gathering with closer to 20 people which gives each of you the opportunity to invite a friend. Our plan is to invite everyone in the congregation to attend, and if you cannot attend your scheduled invitation, we will reschedule you to a later gathering. Please be aware our home is still under construction; it is very rustic even though it will always have a rustic feel. Like most log homes it is cozy, and space is not an issue and we want you to enjoy your time at our home called Lupinewald. New this year is we actually have a kitchen! Every family needs to bring either a dessert or a cold dish to pass. The church will provide the main course, the drinks, all of the condiments and table service. It’s a great time to gather together and enjoy a meal, each other’s company, a time of fellowship and it’s also an opportunity to invite a friend. We would suggest you limit your invites to no more than two couples (a husband and wife) or a neighbor down the street. We truly love connecting with your neighbors and want to introduce them to our church family and hopefully, in time, to Jesus. Because of this format and the possibility of entertaining larger than expected groups, you will need to give us an RSVP if you do have friends coming. It’s very important our guests see that we are caring, compassionate, comfortable to be around…and that more than enough food is available!

Joe’s BBQ will not look like what some people are thinking (worldly parties) but our gracious, winsome, engaging, interested, fun-loving attitude will make up for anything the world offers! Now is the time to think who you want to invite. July through early October weather is so nice, and winter will return as expected, so with no more delay we began. Our first Joe’s BBQ, of the season is today July 18th. If you were not invited, fret not, you will be! Brats & Burgers will be the main choices this year. One other important point is our desire to be sensitive to any food issues, accommodating any dietary restrictions you might have, or dietary preferences such as gluten-free, sugar-free, food allergies, or vegan options. “Together is Better” means making sure we can accommodate all of our church family eating needs. Black bean burgers, and quinoa salad will be offered, maybe some of you will try something new. Janet’s quinoa salad is worth a try! Please eat all the regular healthy and unhealthy stuff that is offered and don’t forget to bring your favorite dish to pass. Looking forward to having you at our home.

The following passage from Acts 2:46-47 motivates me to keep Joe’s BBQ a part of ministry, I hope you agree. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity—all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.