The Tie That Binds - Rehoboth Presbyterian Church
In this episode of The Last Service Podcast, listeners are taken on a poignant journey through the life of Rehoboth Presbyterian Church, as recounted by Rev. AJ Mealor. Having grown up in the close-knit community and later being ordained there, Rev. Mealor shares the deeply personal story of his lifelong connection with Rehoboth. 3 Takeaways for a Dying Church: A church's legacy is created through the investment of time and resources in its children and youth. Healthy relationships between adults and youth can have an impact that outlasts the life cycle of the church. Rehoboth Presbyterian's ending freed the remaining members to serve their new churches in more meaningful ways. Closing a church requires us to let go of our attachments to things, spaces, traditions, etc. But we can, and should, recognize and grieve the loss. That grief is a testament to the goodness of the church family. The episode unfolds as Rev. Mealor vividly describes the pivotal moment in his life, five years after his ordination, when he led Communion for the final service at Rehoboth Presbyterian Church. The timing of this significant event, occurring exactly on the anniversary of his ordination, adds heaviness to the farewell. Listeners gain insight into the church's history and the profound impact it had on Rev. Mealor's ministry. Through anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, he explores the enduring legacy of Rehoboth Presbyterian Church, emphasizing the role it played in shaping his spiritual journey and pastoral calling. As Rev. AJ Mealor shares his thoughts on the church's impact on his ministry, listeners are inspired to reflect on the broader significance of congregational relationships between the elderly and youth, and the indelible mark they leave on both individuals and communities. In this moving episode, The Last Service Podcast captures the essence of saying goodbye to a cherished spiritual family, leaving listeners with a sense of gratitude for the memories created and the lasting influence of Rehoboth Presbyterian Church. Resources and Links Columbia Theological Seminary The Emerging Church by Dan Kimball Atlanta Journal-Constitution Article on Rehoboth Closing -------------------------------------------------- Rehoboth Presbyterian Church's Final Service: A Service of Witness to the Resurrection Celebrating the Life of Rehoboth Presbyterian Church June 1949-May 2016 May 15, 2016 3 pm Gathering Fellowship and Prayer ~~~Enjoy fellowship, being mindful of those who prepare privately.~~~ Prelude Hymn Jesus Saves Welcome Rev. Rachael Whaley Pate The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. And also with you. Preparing † Call to Worship Rev. John Salley We are gathered in one place to call on the name of the Lord. Come, Holy Spirit, come! We are members of one body, calling out in Jesus' name: Come, Holy Spirit, come! † Hymn The Church's One Foundation #321 Prayer of Confession Rev. Joel Tolbert Holy God, You see us as we are, and know our inmost thoughts. We confess that we are unworthy of your loving care. We forget that all life comes from you, and that to you all life returns. We have not always sought or done your will. We have not lived as your grateful children, nor loved as Christ loved us. We have not always been the church you called us to be. Forgive us, God of grace. Heal us and make us whole. Help us to live in your light, and walk in your ways, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Petition Lord, Have Mercy #551 ~~~A time of quiet, personal confession ~~~ Assurance of Pardon The Lord is with us! The Lord is with us, indeed! Response Glory to God #582 † We Share the Peace of Christ The peace of Christ be with you. And also with you. ~~~You are invited to greet one another in the name of Christ. ~~~ †Sung Response Halle, Halle, Hallelujah #591 Sharing Prayer of Preparation Elder David Bowman First Scripture Reading Genesis 26:17-22 Anthem The Greatest Commands Rehoboth Choir Second Scripture Reading Revelation 22 Sermon Rev. Racha