NEWBERRY — Local Methodist were given a mission from their district superintendent on Sunday.
The Rev. James Friday, district superintendent of the Methodist Conference, gathered with members of Methodist churches in the county during the last of the groups’ January Journey. This was the first time Friday preached to the Methodist churches in the county since his appointment in June.
Friday told the group gathered at the O’Neal Street United Methodist Church in Newberry that each of them needs to be in daily communication with God.
He then told the crowd that everyday God opens doors and the people needed to seize the moment and share their faith with others.
Through the story of Jesus telling Simon Peter to let down his nets after not catching a fish all day and Simon Peter pulling up an overflowing net of fish, Friday told the local Methodist to cast their nets and brings others into the body of Christ.
But he warned there will be many different kinds of fish caught and they might not look like others in the church or come from the same neighborhood as the church.
“It is not about the catch but leading all to follow Jesus,” said Friday. “We throw money in a basket but are we willing to invite (those that are helped through missions) to church?”
He also commissioned the group to live lives that show the word of God. “Love God with all your heart. Love your neighbor as yourself,” said Friday.
He also encouraged the church members and different churches to fellowship with each other.
“Not just on Sunday but during the week,” said Friday. “Unify to make sure no one has needs in the community. Do not stop in January but continue. Be the kind of church that everyone whats to be a part of. Anticipate God doing great things.”
January Journey is held each year at different Methodist churches in the county. Members of the churches and other gather for a time of hymn singing and worship.
Offerings are taken at each of the services and are donated to the Free Medical Clinic of Newberry and the Emergency Relief Fund. Also, food items are collected for the Manna House.
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