Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

It is time that we got to know one another.   These are words of hospitality and relationship, and I am convinced that it is in the very listening and welcoming among brothers and sisters that we find Jesus intersecting our lives.   It is no accident that we gather for communion each week as the root of the Word refers to gathering together.   Our common faith is joined in a common meal.  Communion refers to oneness and union, and our community of faith is founded upon such a goal as this.

So we begin by taking the time to gather around prayer and holy listening to God and one another through what will be affectionately known as the “Larry and Joe Road Show.”  As your spiritual leaders, it is only fitting that we take the first step in growing relationships and fostering hospitality.   We have all come to Advent because we seek to know God in Christ more and to be a part of a community of love.

Following our Rally Day, Pastor Larry and I will begin a journey to the homes of those who call Advent home.   Our goal is to listen and aid in strengthening your relationship with God and neighbor.   I feel the need to begin to grow enduring connections from the sanctuary, the home, the greater community, the job, the school and the family.   Getting to know one another opens up opportunities to see how God is working and calling us to grow and learn.

I believe that God created each of us to be accountable to one another, for we are our brothers ’ and sisters ’ keeper, not only to Advent, but to the world.   These days call for a strong faith community capable of not only growing in worship, prayer, and study, but also growing in our hospitality to the stranger as well as those whom we know.   This was how Jesus practiced ministry in homes and neighborhoods, in common areas, and in work places.   Jesus entered into relationship first and then He taught them about God ’s kingdom come near.   We have a strong congregation as more and more begin to critically think on our mission and God ’s vision for us in the world.

More people are asking to look beyond our walls out into Mentor, Mentor on the Lake, Lake County, Cleveland, and beyond and see our mission field.   By knowing God and each other we will be stronger for the journey and more faithful to the task.   The time is now and God is calling us to stand up for the Gospel and get to know the Son as we get to know each other.

Yours in Christ ’s journey,

Pastor Kovitch  (September 2005)

If you are looking for a place to worship or interested in joining, please come visit us.  All are welcome.  We are a community of faith, fed by the Spirit, focused on the family, and led to serve.
Our mission is "to know Christ and make Christ known".

Advent Lutheran Church, ELCA
7985 Munson Road
Mentor, OH 44060
Phone: (440) 257-5565
Fax: (440) 257-3935
To check out the Advent website, select from the drop down menu and hit "GO".

Page last updated on 09/29/05. Send comments regarding site to Webmaster.