Nancy Bray ~ Love First Moment

My name is Nancy Bray and I am love first. 

I’ve been associated with this church since I was twelve. Here in this sanctuary I was baptized, joined the church, married Rob, raised my children, said good bye to my parents, and saw a grandchild baptized. 

I have been nurtured, supported, challenged, changed, and mentored by many wonderful, loving Methodist pastors, church staff and fellow church members.  It is home to me and each of you are a part of my family. That’s the quick version of 55 years.

At annual conference it was stated that if Methodism continues to decrease at its present rate in only 53 years it will cease to exist.  My heart hurt to hear this, and it got my attention. Our keynote speaker Adam Hamilton gave me hope and challenged me and you to make sure that never happens.  He advised us to answer two questions. 

1.  What is the purpose of this church?

2.  Why do people need this particular church? 

Then we must be willing to embrace the changes we need to make to reach outside our walls to those in need of Christ.  To be shepherds looking for the lost and then celebrating and loving them when they are found. 

I’m Nancy Bray and I am love first. 

*(Ezekiel 34 was the text Adam Hamilton was using as he instructed each of us “shepherds” of the church to seek the lost.)