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“Keeping the Momentum Going”
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History has been made around the world this past week, not in the untimely death of George Floyd because that's been going on throughout the United States and in Minnesota for many decades if not scores of years. But what has made history was how many ethnicities have come together to stand for justice. This is the flame that must continue to be fanned to ensure it will never go out. Equal protection, education, along with financial prosperity and health must be accessible equitably and equally. This is the challenge for Minnesotans, and America during this time. Pilgrim, this is what the “New Civil Rights Era” looks like.
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We can't afford to allow our pride or history to hold us back from wholeheartedly taking part in this era. I understand all of us may not be able to physically walk in a march or protest, but we can encourage those that are able. We can actively pray for those that are physically engaged. Because you see, if you don't support the peaceful protest the next fatal shooting may be YOUR SON, YOUR DAUGHTER or YOUR HUSBAND. Then you want the world to stop and come see about you.
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Pilgrim, we must be clear, we do what we do not because we're political activists, or “media hogs” no, not at all. We need to do this because we have a mandate from the Lord Jesus Christ to stand up for the least of these (Matthew 25:34-40), as we care for them, we do it unto Christ. And what we do for them, doesn't escape the view of God, as a matter of fact, the Lord takes note of it and rewards us for it. We are our brother’s and sister’s keeper. You who are reading this article now, when you reflect on your own life, will come to realize that you didn't arrive where you are on your own, you had people in your life, that nurtured and guided you to where you are. For this world to be a caring world we must care for one another as Christ cares for us. And as time marches on such care may or may not always come back to you personally but your children most often are the benefactors of your acts of kindness, mercy, and grace to others. So, if not for your sake, then for the sake of your children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews etc.
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However, not all people in the protest had the same intentions. There were many that wanted an opportunity to poison the message that there is a need for serious change for an equal and equitable relationship between community and policing. Their message was one of violence, destruction, and terrorizing, leaving in their wake, burned supermarkets, minority owned business, and essential places of commerce so needed by the community. Because of the damages left behind, many supermarkets have been destroyed, and don't plan to reopen quickly. Therefore, Pilgrim has begun its food distribution ministry. This ministry takes place on Thursday’s at 1:30 – 3:30. Please, come by and help give out the food that God has blessed us with so we can be a blessing to others.
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The fifth Sunday of May was Pentecost Sunday, the Sunday that marks the birth of the church. Many may have forgotten or may not fully understand the purpose of the church or its mission. The mission of the church has from the onset been, to be more than a place of socializing and gathering. The church is to be made up of a people that are committed to living out the Principles that Jesus taught in their life seeking to make a difference in the lives of others and the world in which they live. Are you living that life now? Are you making a positive difference in the lives of others? I encourage you, we must make a difference in the lives of others, and this world, to do so, note Jesus’ words of the “Great Banquet Feast” (Luke 14:16-24).
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At this feast, there is not only a great deal of food but the presence and desired fellowship of Christ the king and His people. It is during this feast that Christ has invited many to come but many give excuses. Nevertheless, the command is given that we, the servants of Christ, are to “… Go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that His house will be full (v.23). Therefore, let us keep the momentum alive, let US keep alive the purpose of the church by treating others as we would treat Jesus Christ. Let US go out into the roads and country lanes compelling them to come in because the feast of the Lord is going on. May Pilgrim fan the flames of missions along with the urgency of community and social justice as we continue the push in becoming the church where the walk of faith transforms lives.
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Sincerely,
Charles L. Gill
Pastor Gill
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Pastor Gill,
I have no words. And yet I feel like I should, but my words seem hollow. I want to say that I can't believe that this has happened - but I know better. I pray to God, How long O Lord? But I feel like I have been asking that question so often, with no answer. I grieve for the Floyd family and for the Minneapolis/St. Paul family. I pray for you as you minister to your flock in the living of these days. I'm here if you need me and I can be of support to you and yours. Just know that I'm thinking and praying that God gives you the courage and the strength to lead on.
Peace,
Rev. Jacquline L. Saxon Executive Minister
Mid-American Baptist Churches of Iowa and Minnesota (ABCUSA)
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Prayer and Bible Study Phone Conference
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While we continue to set up some sense of normalcy, Pilgrim will have a Bible Study and Prayer Line via conference call to include persons who do not have internet access.
To participate, call (832) 831-2424 and, when prompted, enter 204481 then press #.
- Prayer: Wednesday at 12 p.m. with Rev. Gill & Sunday 10-11 a.m. with Min. Patrick and/or Min. Stephanie Burrage
- Wednesday Bible Study: Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. with Rev. Gill
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Bible Study Video Conference
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Every day is an opportunity to grow in the word. "Growing in Christ" is an adult class that will tackle real-life challenges by examining how the bible addresses these issues. This journey will explore God’s word through faith and timeless truth. Active participation through group discussion and role play will be used to facilitate learning. Learn more and view past lessons. >
When: Sundays 11:30 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Teachers: Min. Patrick and/or Min. Stephanie Burrage
Video Conference Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89418742723
If you are calling by phone:
Dial telephone number (646) 558-8656 and enter Meeting ID 894 1874 2723 and press #
Please wait for the host to accept you into the classroom.
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Youth Night Video Conference
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All youth (grades 6-12) are welcome! Join us as we explore Christ's teachings and plan for our lives in fun and unique ways. Contact RevDodd@PilgrimBaptistChurch.org for video conference details.
Fridays at 7:00 p.m.
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The church will remain closed until further notice.
Continue watching the Pilgrim Baptist Church Live Stream on YouTube. Tune in each Sunday at 10:00 a.m or check out previous recordings anytime.
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Baccalaureate Sunday Service
Watch live June 14th at 10 a.m.
Join us in celebrating
Pilgrim's 2020 graduates
Speaker: Min. Stephanie Burrage
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Living in the Moment
“Be happy in the moment. All you have is now. Remember that you own it. Gratitude is how“ Excerpt from Gratitude by Elizabeth Vecchione
During Covid-19 many people feel isolated, lonely, grief stricken and depressed. A gesture of kindness extended to someone you know or to a complete stranger can bring about a positive effect on their mood or spirit. Examples: Pray for someone going through a difficult time. Smile. Hold the door open. Give an honest compliment. Say, “Thank you.” Share a meal. Offer to help someone. Ask the person who's serving you how their day is going. Telephone someone who lives alone.
The King will reply, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (A) (Matthew 25: 40 NIV)
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Do it Anyway
People are often unreasonable, irrational and self-centered; Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives; Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies; Succeed anyway. If you are honest and sincere, people may deceive you; Be honest and sincere anyway.
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What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight; Create anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous; Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, will often be forgotten; Do good anyway.
Give the best you have, and it may never be enough; Give your best anyway.
In the final analysis, it is between you and God; It was never between you and them anyway.
-- Mother Teresa
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Comfort Circle Facilitators: Mary Robinson, Mary Kenon, Tommy and Faye Bell
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Happy Birthday!
Dinna Wade Ardley, Dorothy Barnes-Griswold, Dwayne Billups, Deacon Gladys Brewton, Richard Brown Sr., Pamela Kelly, Victoria Davis, Deborah Echoles, Marilyn Hill, Ruth Jarmon, Elisa Johnson, Deacon Clarence Kenon, Samantha Momah, Stephanie Reid, Rebecca Scott, Dwight Spain, Gwender Sterling, and Steven Besaw.
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You've Shared My Joys and Soothed My Cries
Author Unknown
Life’s adventures, some lessons sorely learned, have ups and downs - both lows and highs. With every goal for which I’ve yearned, you’ve shared my joys and soothed my cries.
You’ve lived as my shining example to follow. You’re often my source of solutions to heed. You’ve given advice as a tough pill to swallow, but always are present in times of great need.
There’s no greater gift than the pride of the father, there’s no greater love than they have for their child. You count on your father when others won’t bother and moments together are so oft beguiled.
One day is not enough to share the adulation that I bear for you. Happy Father's Day!
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Pilgrim Baptist Church
Where the Walk of Faith Transforms Lives.
732 W. Central Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55104
(651) 227-3220
www.PilgrimBaptistChurch.org
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