“The declining state of the economy is taking physical and emotional toll nation wide,” concludes a study conducted by the American Psychological Association. Eighty percent of Americans are stressed out about the economy and their personal finances; 50% are worried about their ability to provide for their family’s basic needs; and 56% are concerned about their job security. Related to this, 60% report feeling irritable and angry and 52% often lose sleep at night.
That assessment was for 2008. Four years later, these numbers may still apply.
In response to the concerns of its community and congregants regarding the ongoing economic plight, The Reformed Church in Plano (RCP) is taking action. While many desire more money and security, RCP will provide Enough for anyone who wants it.
Beginning January 15, The Reformed Church in Plano will embark upon a sermon and study series following Rev. Adam Hamilton’s book Enough (Abingdon Press, 2009). It will span 5 weeks and all are invited to attend.
“I feel that Adam Hamilton’s Enough is most helpful for this particular time and context,” says Rev. Michael Hardeman, who co-pastors RCP with Rev. Elizabeth Hardeman, his wife. “Hamilton speaks directly into a culture whose economic ‘fabric’ has unraveled. But unlike our economic experts, he addresses the crisis from a spiritual perspective. The root issue for our culture really comes down to where we place our collective trust.”
At its core, this is a stewardship series. However, it reaches beyond passing the plate and soliciting pledges for the church’s budget. On each of the 5 Sundays hearers will be challenged regarding how they are living now; taught how to engender simplicity and generosity; given guidance about creating and following a personal or family budget; and encouraged to grow more deeply in their trust in God. RCP will utilize a two-pronged approach to enrich participants’ experience and learning. Adult Sunday school classes and small groups will be discussing the book and each week’s topic concurrent with the sermon. All classes and groups are open to visitors and new members.
“This series is designed for those looking for straightforward teaching about money and stewardship from a biblical and theological perspective,” Rev. Hardeman says. “If you are struggling to make ends meet; if you have high balances on your credit cards; if you find yourself living under the perpetual curse of always wanting more; and if you want to know if God has something to say about all these things, then check it out!”
The Reformed Church in Plano is a congregation of The Reformed Church in America. It is located at 5333 Independence Parkway in Plano. Worship takes place every Sunday at 8:30 and 11:00 a.m., with educational opportunities from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. Nursery care is available for young children through age 3 from 8:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. For more information call 972.867.6704 or visit online at www.celebratercp.org.
Comments