New Beginnings in Advent

I was in heaven at our Advent Dinner on December 7th. It was definitely an experience beyond my wildest dreams, for I was experiencing what a nesting relationship is at its very best. Maybe even better than at its best.

For those who may be a bit unfamiliar, Bethany Presbyterian Church shares its facilities with the Oromoo Evangelical Presbyterian Church - a PC(USA) fellowship. When I first learned about Oromoo's presence at Bethany I was excited that they nested here and that I would have a chance to develop deeper relationships with another culture.

Through the time that Oromoo as has been at Bethany, I think many have been unsure of the other from both sides. But with time, I have seen a shift developing. During October's World Communion Sunday the Bethany folks were able to experience worship in the Oromoo style and though it was very different it was another point of connection and I believe it was a new beginning for all of us. On that day I greeted the Oromoo people in their own language and I help administer the bread and wine to them in their own language as well. On that day walls began to go down.

Then in the fall, we had the God and Country program from 2-3 p.m. on Sundays and the new Youth Group from 5-7 that same evening, which allowed another point of contact between Bethany and Oromoo. This, I believe was significant. The Oromoo congregation became used to seeing me here as they began fellowship and we have had many times to talk. Even with these points of contact I had no idea what would progress.

Oromoo had there second mini-conference this Fall on Thanksgiving weekend and invited me to lead a prayer for the children and to speak for a few moments. This was a treasure. I was able to thank them for being here with us, to tell them how blessed we all are to be here together and to tell them of my understanding of congregational life here in this church -- that we are one people worshipping at different times and from different cultures but all here to nurture, love and support one another, all a part of the one body of Christ, the Church.

Still I had no idea what was to come. The very next day after I spoke and prayed at the conference, Rev. Guja passed a paper around during fellowship time for people to sign up to attend the Advent dinner. 55 signed up to attend including 17 children!

Our Oromoo Brothers and Sisters decorated 3 tables, sang an Oromoo Christmas song, brought food, helped clean up and 7 were in the dish room helping Jim. I think he is still beaming!

At the dinner about 120 Oromoo and Bethany members sat together and began forming bonds of friendship as they have had more time to talk and laugh together. Some members have exchanged phone numbers and are planning on getting together in the future.

Also, Oromoo asked to help next time with planning and preparations too -- to be full participants in this church-wide event. What a blessing! Look how we have grown together in the name of Jesus Christ.

Isn't this what God calls us to be and to do -- to join with our fellow brothers and sisters of the faith as we share Christ's love, peace, and compassion with each other? It doesn't matter where we were born, it doesn't matter who's who. All that matters is that we are followers of Jesus Christ working to be a disciple of Christ in all of our relationships both in the church and in the world.

From this great progression, the Oromoo congregation asked to join with Bethany members in De-Decorating the church. Therefore on Sunday, January 4^th after the Oromoo worship we will have dinner together at about 4:30 p.m. and then work together in taking down and packing up our Christmas decorations until next year.

What a great opportunity we have! It will be a great time of fellowship and bonding as we work side by side together. I pray you will be able to join us as we enjoy each other's company and celebrate the great successes of Christ's Church here in Lancaster!