A little over 13 years ago, Glenn decided to take a chance on something new. Using the passion and gifts of staff and laity, a new worship service was launched on Sunday evenings. “The Gathering at 5:05” was a communion-based, modern worship service that would offer something different than Glenn’s Sunday morning services.
Over the years, The Gathering has taken different forms, particularly in the eight years I’ve had the joy of leading it. Modern worship with screens, virtual worship on Wednesday nights during the pandemic, and intimate services in the round have all been a part of the joy. Various fantastic musicians, including staff, laity, and Candler interns, have led us in singing praise, and those same interns have honed their preaching skills in the pulpit on Sunday nights. Kids played at the coloring tables in the corner, youth led us in worship, and we held special services that focused on a wide array of issues - from LGBTQ Pride to lamenting gun violence in our world.
For a variety of reasons, it seems that the need for a worship service at 5pm on Sunday nights does not exist in the same way it once did. In order to focus on the best uses of our time, talents, and resources, the staff and worship leadership have decided it is time for The Gathering, as it exists now, to come to an end. Our last worship service will be April 21st at 5pm.
It is with heavy and thankful hearts that we have come to this decision. While there will be some grief for those of us for whom this service has meant so much, it is the right decision to focus our energies in new directions. This will include new opportunities on Sunday nights, which you will hear more about in the coming months.
There are too many people to thank by name, but I am so grateful for those who have worshiped, served, and led at The Gathering over the last 13 years. I want to extend a special thanks to Jordan Grassi Dauterman, who has been our worship leader, and so much more, for the last 5 years. Jordan’s talent, wisdom, and incredible heart have been a blessing to me and everyone who has worshiped with us.
I look forward to this new chapter in the life of Glenn Memorial UMC as we continue to seek the best ways to Love God and Love Neighbor. Please feel free to reach out to me or the rest of the pastoral staff team if you have questions, and join us on April 21st as we come to the table one last time, giving thanks for what has been and in anticipation of the new things that God is going to birth in our midst!
-Rev. Brent