Dear Church Family,

As summer begins to wind down and the fall semester draws closer, returning to familiar routines is not that far on the horizon. Schools will reopen, ministry calendars will fill, and our campuses will once again become busy with children, students, families, guests, and neighbors.

This is a good time to prayerfully consider where God may be inviting each of us to serve.

Serving is one of the ways we follow the example of Jesus, care for one another, live the gospel, and use the gifts God has entrusted to us. As Peter reminds us, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace” (1 Peter 4:10).

This may mean continuing in a place where you have served faithfully for years. For others, it may mean returning after a season away or even taking a first step into something new.

As fall approaches, there will be meaningful opportunities to serve in ministry areas such as Kids, Students, ESL, Hospitality, Audio/Video, and many other areas across CityRise. These roles are different, but each one helps create an environment where people can encounter Jesus, grow in community, and feel welcomed.

I encourage you to pray about where the Lord may be leading you. You don’t need to have everything figured out before responding! Our CityRise Serve form is simply a way to let us know where you may be interested and to begin a conversation with one of our ministry leaders.

Speaking of serving and ministry, we are grateful for members of our church family who have been serving beyond our city throughout the summer. A mission team is currently ministering in Germany, and another team will travel to London tomorrow. I will be preaching at our West U Batist campus this Sunday and flying out to join them afterward. Please pray for safe travel, unity, wisdom, and fruitful opportunities to share the love and hope of the gospel of Christ.

Whether across an ocean or across a hallway, God uses willing people to accomplish His purposes. May each of us remain attentive to the places He has prepared for us to serve.

Have a great weekend, Church Family!


Expecting Greater,
Pastor Roger