Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us give thanks, by which we offer to God an acceptable worship with reverence and awe… Hebrews 12:28

One of the many things I love about our historic district here in Tarboro is the urban streetscape, the way the old homes and the sidewalks and the trees and the church spires work together to create interesting layers of rooflines and overlapping vistas.

I have in mind a series of photographs I plan to stake out over the next couple of weeks, but for now this view down Saint Patrick Street, looking southeast from where our new home is situated, speaks volumes.

Today is Sunday, and you may be one of those people who recognize the beauty and the value of a church (or churches) helping to define the neighborhood and/or downtown. Presbyterian, Episcopalian, Methodist, Baptist, AME, Pentecostal… not only here in Tarboro, but every community in the United States. Churches contribute architecture, history, spiritual anchor points, a sense of community – all the elements people want in a town center.

But there is no church without an active community at worship and in engagement with the town. Look closely at this photograph, and even though I took the picture when nobody was there, the life of it is impossible to miss.

There is no church absent an active community of people at worship

The richness of the community, the deep love and the sense of invitation make Howard Memorial pulse with real life. Believe me, this is something every community needs – and needs at a level many people seldom really think about.

God’s love and power are real and transformational, regardless; but the way love plays out from day to day in any community requires your presence, your participation, your life and light combined with the life and light of others. Nothing improves a community like an active church such as Howard Memorial.

We would love to see you; and bring the family along too – DEREK

The way love plays out from day to day in this community requires your presence, your participation, your life and light combined with the life and light of others.