Wonderful day today. I went to church at Holy Trinity Church in Stewartstown, PA. It was great to see a CEC (Charismatic Episcopal Church, http://www.iccec.org/ ) in a different part of the country. Due to getting lost, I arrived a little late, but at least I made it. The congregation was very warm, participatory and sincere. Many people came to greet me during the sign of peace. The fascinating part of my experience was the story of the congregation itself and the head pastor, Fr. Mike Brecht.
Fr. Mike has served as a pastor in PA for nearly 25 years and about 6 years ago he made a bold and brave move with his faith community. He felt called to follow a revelation of Truth and changed his congregation from an evangelical, non-demonination to part of the CEC. It seems to have been a painful process. He lost over 75% of his congregation and his job as well. Because of the changing finances he had to return to work as a blacksmith. He has continued to serve God and God's people faithfully while still taking care of his family.
Fr. Mike's humilty and dedication is amazingly inspirational. He followed his own convictions and took his responsibility as shepherd seriously. It is so difficult to lose those who cannot grow with you, but those who remain seem decicated, alive and prosperous. Please pray for him and his flock. It seems there may be a huge financial blessing that will allow him to return to almost full-time status as a pastor and hopefully grow the church back. They have a great property and a wonderful building. I am sure the Lord will bless them and they will be able to fully utilize the space to nuture and care for one another and continue to build community. His son will be going to Iraq soon with the Army. Keep him in your prayers as well.
It was so wonderful to hear his story and that of Deacon Mark. The humility and dedication is overwhelming. I hope to return when possible and see what is in store for them. Everywhere I go I am so impressed with those I meet in the CEC. The Spirit is alive and moving.
1 comment:
Yes, the Spirit is alive and moving. A great gesture by Fr. Mike's wife. She sounds like one great lady.
Fr. Mike's story is amazing and inspiring. It truly makes one wonder ... how much would we be missing if the Holy Spirit wasn't in our lives? It gives one hope in a time when one could be so down, so negative ... what with all the hate these days. I mean the beauty of life is right before our very eyes. Oh, how true the saying, we have eyes but do not see and ears but do not hear.
Well, you just continue your journey my daughter. I'm sure the Spirit has many great things in store for you! Enjoy your down time. It's very special!
Love, Su Padre
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