Growing Together in Every Season
As September arrives, many of us find ourselves settling into familiar rhythms. Schools are back in session, church calendars begin filling with Bible studies, committee meetings, youth gatherings, and fall outreach events. After the slower pace of summer, we once again discover the joy—and challenge—of being busy together.
Yet Scripture reminds us that our calling is not simply to stay busy, but to remain rooted.
The Apostle Paul writes:
"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."(Colossians 2:6–7)
Healthy congregations are much like healthy trees. What we see above the ground—worship, mission projects, fellowship meals, children's laughter, and faithful service—is sustained by deep roots below the surface. Those roots are formed through prayer, study, relationships, generosity, and trust in God's Spirit.
Across Kansas, I continue to witness signs of those deep roots.
I see congregations caring for neighbors after storms, welcoming visitors with genuine hospitality, supporting children through school partnerships, providing food for hungry families, and encouraging one another through difficult seasons. I see pastors and lay leaders faithfully serving communities large and small. These ministries may not always make headlines, but they reveal the Kingdom of God growing quietly among us.
September also reminds us that ministry is a shared calling. The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) has always understood itself to be a covenantal people. None of our congregations serve alone. We pray for one another, celebrate together, grieve together, and join resources so that Christ's ministry extends farther than any one congregation could accomplish by itself.
As we enter this new season of ministry, I invite every congregation to consider three simple questions:
- Where is God already at work in your community?
- Who is God inviting you to welcome?
- How can you partner with others rather than trying to do ministry alone?
The answers will look different in every community, but God's invitation remains the same: to bear faithful witness to Christ wherever we are planted.
Thank you for your continued ministry throughout Kansas. Your faithfulness matters. Your witness matters. Your congregation matters.
May this autumn be a season of renewed hope, deeper relationships, and abundant opportunities to share Christ's love.
Grace and peace,
David Dubovich
Associate Regional Minister
Christian Church in Kansas (Disciples of Christ)