Message From The Pastor's Desk

Autumn Greetings, Church,

As I write this, the weather is in harmony with the calendar. It doesn't always work this way, but on this equinox, the temperature has dropped, leaves are blowing off the trees, and yes, our worship has returned to our beautiful Old Brick Church. So, for now, it feels like all things are in balance. Let's take a moment and breathe in the remaining days of what we call, at the shore, Local Summer.

Although we are turning the last few pages of the calendar—already!—there are many new beginnings at Old Brick Church. The beautiful voice of Charmaine Cortis Fidalgo, our leader of song, has already enhanced our ability to "pray twice" during worship, as she will do every 2nd and 4th Sunday. Our new Consistory VP, Elder Thomas Bynoe, announced an opportunity to gather in prayer every Tuesday evening in the Church from 6:00–7:00 p.m. Christenings will grace our community at worship in October and November.

While we continue to support local charities such as LOVE LIFTS US UP, https://www.lluu.org, and will celebrate Harvest Day, to support those in need on November 8th, we are also planning to host a new event, the Luminos Concert, on November 21st, https://www.lumos-experiences.com.

As we continue America's 250th Birthday year and celebrate the 200th anniversary of our Church Sanctuary, Autumn is a perfect time to visit the colorful trees of our historic grounds and cemetery, where you will find many veterans of the Civil War and the Revolution, including one of our own founding pastors, Reverend Benjamin Dubois.

Just as nature prepares for the coming changes, we should be foraging and storing as well. Absorb the warmth of the sun, kick around the falling leaves, or sit and watch the waves crash on an empty beach. Pick out a few good books of the Bible or other inspiring texts to read while sipping a favorite warm beverage. As the days grow shorter, so does our desire to socialize. Let's be prepared to lessen our isolation by making sure everyone has our contact information—and that doesn’t just mean our church family, loved ones, and neighbors. Be sure God knows how to reach us by deepening our prayer life and coming out to worship while the weather allows.

Fill up on community by calling a church member you have not seen in a while. Invite them to join you for worship, fellowship, and home-baked goodies.

If the weather keeps you from coming to Church—or anything hinders you from doing so—PLEASE call the office and let us know that you would either like a ride or a visit. Always remember, we are never alone, at any time of year.

Please be sure to update your contact information, and I hope to see you at Old Brick Church, where we are renewed by your presence.

Peace, warmth, and God’s blessings,

Pastor Terence McCorry

Be sure to update your contact information with our new secretary Debbie Avery at secretary@oldbrickchurch.org / (732) 946-8860. Let us know your prayer requests and what talents you would like to offer to the OBRC community: singing or playing an instrument, lector, hospitality, community outreach, historical tours, bible study, special events, (even bell rope pullers!)