Called to be "Peace" makers by God's Grace

by Pastor Elizabeth Deibert

These are exciting days in the life of Peace Presbyterian.  Having studied worship, established small groups, had discussions of what this church can do and be, made plans for launching in 2006, Peace is ready to grow.  We have secured a beautiful space for worship and education on Sunday mornings, and we are employing five talented and dedicated part-time employees to assist in music, administration, and childcare.

Sunday morning services, fellowship and educational programs will begin on January 8^th at 9:30 a.m. at Manatee Community College in the Lakewood Ranch Corporate Park, off University Blvd.  Our core values are inspiring worship, lively learning, authentic relationships, and compassionate outreach.  With a blended service, using the best of contemporary and traditional worship, we hope to attract a vibrant, intergenerational congregation.  We think Peace will be a church where people can bring their hopes and dreams and form a community of companions serving Jesus Christ together.

Peace is led by a strong group of pioneers who bring years of experience to church life, and who are committed to listening to the perspective of all people as we discern the voice of God’s Spirit who calls us to be the church.  We will encourage people to be authentic and will provide opportunities for people to ask the hard questions of faith and life. 

We are already significantly involved in mission, reaching out to help local farm workers through Beth-El Mission and constructing a house in Palmetto with Habitat for Humanity.  We are grateful to have the support of our presbytery, Church of the Palms and First, Sarasota, as well as other particular congregations like First of Arcadia, who have been most generous.

Peace needs your help in 2006.  In order to develop into a self-sustaining church of more than two hundred members, we need missionaries who will provide the critical mass of people required to attract and retain visitors.  Never has it been any easier for you to serve as a missionary.  All you have to do is drive to Lakewood Ranch each Sunday to worship and serve with us for three to six months (March through August).  We invite you to prayerfully consider this call.  We are also planning a substantial advertising campaign for February and March to reach other people in the Lakewood Ranch area and invite them to join us in worship and in building this new Presbyterian church.