Gateway on Sunday continued our blessings theme based on the beatitudes. We welcomed Steve Calder, a Baptist pastor currently working in Croydon and long-time friend and colleague of Steve Argent. He shared his experience of meeting needs in South London and Croydon, faced with demographic changes associated with property development for the wealthy in inner city areas.
Jesus loved the poor for their good company and their approach to life. That is how the church started, and it has often been a starting point for renewal. Churches that welcome those in need with unconditional love show the way of compassion and fellowship. The question for us is, how can we continue to serve the needs of our community? One of Steve’s insights is that a major resource of many churches is the building; support organisations by contrast may have other resources of funds, professional expertise and volunteer support but not property. He was inspirational in telling us how he has shared church buildings with non-church organisations in his patch to provide support, fellowship and counselling to the young, elderly, demented or bereaved of all religious views or none.
Thank you, Steve.
The Beatitudes
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.
Blessed are those who suffer persecution for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.