I am always fascinated by the dedication of the members of this church. Sometimes, I don’t even know how to say thank you. This week, I am reflecting on the ministry of the Altar Guild. We are so used to coming to church, singing hymns, seeing the flowers, and receiving the sacred sacraments. Little do we realize that behind it all is a small, dedicated group of individuals who give their all.
One thing I find so inspiring about the Altar Guild is that they are not just there for the congregation, but also for one another. It is a great pastoral group that constantly checks on each member with genuine spiritual concern. Usually, they are the first to let me know who is not doing well, who is going through a hard time, and everything in between.
But this past Sunday truly humbled me. Jonathan wondered what could have happened to one of our members, and I wondered too. I decided to stay late. Around 4:00 p.m., I saw that member come back to the church. “Hi. Are you okay?” was my first reaction. It was apparent to me that they were not doing well at all. Yet, after we briefly chatted, they slowly walked up the steps into the Church, in order to ensure that everything we used during the service was put away safely and with sacred dignity.
As I watched, I wondered, What kind of dedication is this? How faithful! If I were the one feeling that way, I would have called Rev. Clifford and simply told him, “I am not well. Please take the service.” But not that member of the Altar guild. They push themselves to do their work—the work that most of us don’t even see. They do it for God, and only God truly understands the depth of this group’s dedication.
This week, please take the time to thank our Altar Guild. Let them know that we value what they do. But above all, let their dedication inspire you to do more for one another and for God’s church. Remember, it is not just what we do in public that matters—God sees what is done behind closed doors.
Please pray for our Guild as they show us how to love one another, and serve God without ceasing.
Join us for prayers at 9:30 a.m.
From the E-Crier of June 25, 2026. Subscribe to the weekly newsletter.