Where There’s a Will

This morning we worshipped at Gunnison Congregational Church (UCC) with our hosts who are members there. They don't have their own building and worship in rented space at Western State College. Not having to spend lots of time and money on buildings has allowed this vibrant congregation to concentrate on it's mission, "…to be an authentic, inclusive, and open and affirming community of faith centered in Christ."  Besides their Sunday services, educational, fellowship and other congregational activities, they have a remarkable outreach into the community, for which they are known. For example, they started an Alternative Christmas Gifts Market in which 5 other churches now participate, an ESL program for Cora Indian immigrants from Mexico, a free and reduced lunch program at the high school, a Partners program for at-risk youth, and a restorative justice program for youth. They also have a Turkeys for Thanksgiving program, support the GLBT student group at the college, and are actively involved in Habitat For Humanity, having built half a dozen homes in Gunnison. This outreach is uncommon for a congregation with an average Sunday attendance of about 70 with no edifice. Where there's a will, there's a way, to paraphrase St. Paul.