Shepherd's Corner (July 23, 2025)

Shepherd's Corenr July 23, 2025

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Dear Beloved Riverside Family,

I hope all is well with you and your family. I am writing to encourage everyone to attend our Summer Family Retreat, which will be held over the weekend of August 8–10, 2025.

I understand there are many reasons not to attend. Your calendar is busy. Work is demanding. The children’s activities never stop. And yes, relaxing at home might seem more appealing than packing up and driving out—especially with the added cost of room and board.

But let me give you one reason to come: to build the church, God’s visible Kingdom on earth. Your participation is crucial because, through your presence, someone else (perhaps even you) may encounter God in a way that changes their life. Summer retreats are special that way. And your attendance doesn’t just make the retreat possible; it helps build the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. An invitation to attend the retreat is, in fact, an invitation to build the church and be part of the Kingdom of God.

The local church isn’t just a weekly gathering; it’s a living temple where God dwells by His Spirit (Ephesians 2:22). And while God builds His Kingdom one person at a time, He doesn’t do it in isolation. We can’t have a retreat with just one person. The church is a family. When we, young and old, singles and families, seekers and saints, come together, something beautiful happens. The Lord meets us in ways we don't experience in our daily routines.

This year’s theme is “Finding God in Uncertain Times.” What a relevant and timely theme! We are living in a world full of turbulence—wars and rumors of wars, natural disasters, economic instability, and moral confusion. The future feels shaky. But it’s precisely in such uncertain times that we need to anchor ourselves in our God, who is the "Rock of Salvation." The retreat is not just an event; it’s an opportunity to seek Him together, to be reminded that He is near, and to be renewed in our calling as His people.

We understand that for some, this season presents financial challenges. That’s why our church family, including you, offers generous scholarships because we want everyone to have the opportunity to attend. No one should feel excluded. If finances are a concern, I urge you: please speak with me. We are here to support one another.

Let’s come away together—not just to get away, but to grow deeper in faith, closer in love, and firmer in hope.

In His Grace Alone,

Pb

P.S. Since we cannot hold another worship service at 100 Gilbert Avenue that weekend, our corporate worship will be at the retreat site. Also, please consider attending the retreat, even if only partially.