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Thoughts on the 8:30 Service from Peter Fadden When asked to write some thoughts on why the 8:30 service was important to me, I thought it would be simple: The service fits a need for me. But thinking about the why, I came to see that there are more specific reasons than it simply fit a need. Many of you know that I work in Poughkeepsie during the week. It means that I leave early Sunday afternoon to return to there. Attendance at the 11 AM service would mean I would be hurrying off right after church service ended. Being able to come to the 8:30 service means that I get to have some time with my family before I leave, as well as have what in my family is the traditional noontime Sunday meal. It helps me make Sunday a special day, in keeping with the idea of Sabbath. All that come to 8:30 service know our granddaughter Aby. She has a form of Autism, and we are all thankful that she has overcome a lot of the issues it causes. One of the most difficult things for her is large groups of people. The 8:30 service provides her with a place that she feels comfortable to the point that she looks forward to coming to “Grandma’s Church” each Sunday. We have seen her grow to the point that she even talks to Pastor Stuart at the children’s time. For this reason I’m thankful for the early service. My historical background has been belonging to and attending small churches. Though the sanctuary is figuratively large, the 8:30 service gives me the comfort of the small church. Also, I’m an early morning person. I find that I am better able to focus on the meanings and messages of the service at 8:30 than 11:0. And, having already heard the scripture and message for the morning, it makes Sunday school much more meaningful to me. Finally, I like the simplicity of the service. It is basic. It allows me to take myself away from everyday life. It reminds me that we do not need organs, choirs, a large number of worshippers, or a large, fancy building to be thankful and rejoice in our God. In closing, though it may sound somewhat self-centered. The 8:30 service is like having a good breakfast that starts a good day: it simply makes for a better worship experience and a better day! |
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