🌟 An Ever-Changing God 🌟

When God called God's People to Inclusion

Over the past two months we have explored the idea of an ever-changing God. Again and again we see how God’s Spirit pushes the boundaries we humans try to draw, moving us away from exclusion and toward embrace. The stories remind us that God is not finished with us yet, and that the wideness of divine love has always been greater than our walls.

In one video, I share about the time after the Babylonian exile. The people, having returned and rebuilt, faced the question of who belonged in the community. Where earlier laws had excluded those with disabilities or those who were eunuchs, the prophets envisioned something new. They opened the doors of the temple wider, declaring that those once pushed aside now had a place in God’s house of prayer. I invite you to watch and reflect on what that widening of welcome might mean for us today.

In another video, I explore Peter’s vision in Acts. He saw a sheet filled with animals that were labeled clean and unclean. When God told him to eat, Peter resisted, holding on to tradition. Yet God’s voice rang out clearly: “What God has made clean, you must not call profane.” That vision was not about food at all, but about people. It was a call for Peter to see every person as worthy of God’s welcome. I encourage you to watch and consider how God might be expanding our own vision of inclusion.

All of these stories remind us that God’s love has never been static. It has always moved God’s people to reshape laws, traditions, and practices so that the community grows wider and more inclusive. If it happened before, it can happen again. The question for the Christian church is whether it will follow where God's love is leading.

Dear Beloved Community,

Vacations and trips abroad give us more than souvenirs and photographs. They give us perspective. Being in Uruguay reminded me how easy it is, here at home, to slip into an us versus them way of seeing. I noticed how quickly I could look at someone’s bumper sticker or see someone in a red hat and allow it to shape my entire view of them.

That way of seeing can become a habit when our differences feel so sharp. Yet Jesus calls us to something deeper. He tells us to love our enemies and pray for those who oppose us. This does not mean pretending that real differences do not exist or excusing harmful actions. Instead, it means we resist the temptation to let hatred take root in our hearts.

Travel reminded me that there are other ways to live. In Uruguay, I witnessed a spirit of civility in daily interactions. People chose to treat one another with kindness, even when disagreements surely existed. What would it look like for us to practice that same kind of love here? To hold firmly to our values while still recognizing the humanity of those who see the world differently?

The work of justice and the call to love our enemies belong together. They are not easy to balance, yet they are part of the life we are called to live. Perhaps the greatest gift of stepping away, even for a short time, is remembering that the way we see others can change. That may be the most valuable thing we can bring back home.

Blessings,

Pastor Brian

New Day continues its mission to become a "church beyond the walls" with a broad range of activities to build community and several ways to grow in your faith and spirituality over the rest of this month.

Upcoming New Day Events

Restorative Yoga: Saturday, October 4. 2025. 11am - 12pm. See flyer with signup information below.
Bible Study: Sunday, October 5, 2025.10:30 a.m. at Other Lands.
Monthly Social Event: Sunday, October 5, 2025. 4pm - 9pm. Hoppin' at 120 N. Markley Street, Greenville, SC 29601 (see details below). Upstate Pride and DJ Sawce are teaming up to take over Hoppin’ Greenville for the ultimate day party! Join us Sunday, October 5th, from 5-9 PM for a vibrant afternoon of House beats by DJ Sawce and guest DJs. We’ll have the whole venue buzzing with energy – sip on craft cocktails or refreshing mocktails, and feast on bites from Greenville’s local eateries. With just a $10 entry fee, you’re guaranteed a safe, inclusive space to dance, vibe, and connect. Don’t miss the party! Contact Pastor Brian if you are interested.
Community Action: Saturday, October 18, 2025. No Kings Rally at Graham Plaza, 300 S. Main Street, Greenville, SC 29601. 2pm - 4pm.
Worship Service: Sunday, October 19, 2025. 10:30 a.m. at Other Lands.
Upstate Pride: Saturday, October 25, 2025. Downtown Spartanburg. Details to follow. Due to lack of corporate funding, this year's event will be scaled back from prior. At this point, we do not know if there will be an opportunity for our church to have a booth.

If you'd like to add anything for next weeks' community prayer, please contact Pastor Brian at pastor@newdayccc.com.

PRAISES for a fun evening with the kids at Generations Group Home. Praises for everyone who helped out.
Prayers for Myrna as she continues medical followup following some unusual blood work.
Prayers for Jason who struggles with depression and anxiety. Prayers for his hoped-for move back to California and for a computer so he can do some writing.
Prayers for Gary who has been having issues with uncontrollable nerve twitches.
Prayers for Joe's niece Serena who has a terminal illness.
Prayers for those who are struggling with physical, mental, and economic challenges.
Prayers for those who have suffered trauma and those who suffer from anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.
Prayers for those suffering the effects of war.
Prayers for our nation as we face local, national, and global challenges.
Prayers for those of us who are suffering from the blistering attack on our community by the current administration.
Prayers for Pastor Brian, Myrna, Brooke, and others who have unspoken requests this week.

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As we embrace new opportunities in 2025, your support is more vital than ever. Your generosity fuels our mission to serve the LGBTQ community, provide a welcoming space for worship, and grow into all God calls us to be. Every gift, no matter the size, helps us continue creating a space of love, connection, and hope. Thank you for being part of this journey—your contributions truly make a difference.

8/1/25-9/25/25

Tithe Income: $5,975

Interest Earned: $1,000(est)

Expenses: $8,334

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New Day Christian Community Church
MEETING LOCATION - OTHER LANDS

731 Rutherford Road, Greenville, SC 29609

New Day Christian Community Church exists to provide a diverse, open, and affirming Christian community to all who desire a discipleship walk with Jesus Christ by offering challenging worship experiences, mission-based service opportunities, and Biblical learning so that we are empowered to reach out to others, introduce them to the love and strength of the beloved community, and invite them to join the faith journey of discipleship.