On Sunday, October 2, long-time friend of Holy Covenant, Rev. Owen Ross, will be our guest preacher. Owen is the founding pastor of Christ's Foundry United Methodist Church, which is a Spanish-speaking congregation serving people in the Dallas-Love Field area.
            Owen's visit will be a time of thanksgiving and celebration, because after more than 10 years of diligent and selfless service, the people of Christ's Foundry can go to the corner of Park Lane and Webb Chapel and see their new church building under construction (to see pictures of the building yourself, go to www.christsfoundry.org). Soon, the United Methodist Church will have a tangible presence in that community - a presence that will serve the community in Christ's name for decades to come.
            The name of the church - Christ's Foundry - may seem a bit odd, but it is taken from our Methodist heritage and suits this church's mission to a tee. Back in the 18th century, when the Methodist movement was gathering steam in England, John Wesley purchased an old cannon foundry (ie. factory) to be a center for outreach. In addition to offering obviously "religious" activities at the foundry, the Methodists there met the people's basic needs, like providing medicine for common illnesses. It was a holistic ministry, touching the lives of people - body, mind and soul. That is precisely the model for ministry that has shaped Christ's Foundry.
            Christ's Foundry's success is a tremendous victory for the Church, and it is a victory in which we at Holy Covenant share. From the beginning, Holy Covenant has been a partner in ministry with Owen and the people of Christ's Foundry. Every year, Holy Covenant provides financial support, leadership for Christ's Foundry Board, volunteers and food for their children's and youth programs, patrons of the various small businesses led by members of Christ's Foundry, and of course prayers.
            Holy Covenant - God has done a beautiful thing, in large part through your generosity and love for people in the Love Field area.
            I look forward to gathering for worship with you on Sunday, October 2, for a time a heart-felt celebration.
            Grace and Peace, Pastor Andy