Reflections on Outdoor Worship during the Eco-Love Festival
Shared at the Sept. 17 end-of-summer celebration, by new members Bethany and Scott Davis, based on questions they were given for reflection
What made Outdoor Worship meaningful for you?
We loved the vibe of being outside in nature! The trees and space are gorgeous—regal, even. Definitely helps one connect with God and the magnificence of creation’
What made Outdoor Worship fun for you?
The upbeat music: contemporary + relevant focus!
Especially loved the service with Jonathan and Lowell’s music, supported by Pastor Bergen on keyboards and percussion. The Blessing of the Animals and Christmas in July were very cool.
What was your favorite part?
The sermons and sermon series were poignant and excellent! Loved the movie themes, and especially the overall eco-theme! Since we have been attending Good Shepherd, we have heard at least five of the best sermons we have ever, ever heard—and I grew up as a pastor’s kid!
What new experience did you have?
Worshipping outside each week was really, really nice and provided a casual, relaxing and focused mood.
Scott says: “Spiders on my program.”
What was new for you at this church?
We initially thought we would attend Sunday services maybe once or twice a month. Since we’ve started attending, we have come every single Sunday and at least twice during the week!
We are greatly inspired to be involved here. It is incredible to be part of a congregation that is doing the relevant work of outreach, focusing on high profile issues that matter ie environment/ eco-awareness and eco-love; LGBTQIA+ outreach, ministry and affirmation; and addressing homelessness/ unhoused individuals in our community. Good Shepherd is on-point and cutting-edge by going outside of the parameters of the ‘church building’ and demonstrating love in action by actively addressing these issues and more—as all churches should be, especially in today’s day and age.
We are blessed to have found and become involved in a church community that is doing this amazing work, and excited to be on this journey now as part of the Good Shepherd congregation.
