Do your remember the first day of school? Whether you think back to kindergarten or high school or any year in between, I’m sure that day was filled with excitement and surprises. From finding your classroom, to meeting a new teacher and friends, the first day of school is a BIG one.

The arrival of September may still fill us with anticipation, even though as adults the delights and demands of school seem far away. In church life September may mark the time some people know they’ll begin attending worship more regularly. For others, it may inspire a recommitment to the monthly meetings of committees, education, or fellowship groups. From choir rehearsals to church school classes, from coffee hours to special all church forums, the month of September ushers in a new season, one filled with opportunities to grow.

At Payson Park these opportunities will be increased by The Reverend Rob Asinger’s transition to a new church this fall. As announced at the Council and Congregational meetings in August, Rob accepted the call as Interim Minister at Union Congregational Church of Waban beginning September 1. While he will no longer be with us in worship, Rob will remain involved in our administrative and planning processes through the fall, the specifics of which will be addressed in a forthcoming letter from our moderators. Rob’s presence and leadership will be missed immensely, and we can look forward to having the opportunity to give thanks for his eight great years of service at a celebration following our Annual Meeting in January.

It’s recognizing this and the many other opportunities September brings that I say “welcome back” to those who’ve been away these weeks of summer as well as to those who’ve filled the pews. “Welcome back” to life in a community filled with joy, where we work together for the good of all. “Welcome back” to a season filled with anticipation and even, perhaps, some anxiety, as like little children we know that a new year means stepping beyond the familiar so we can grow. May we trust love to lead us, sensing God is here, beckoning us to new and abundant life.

The Reverend Lael Atkinson