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About St. Andrews | Ministries | Pastor's Page | Staff
PASTOR'S PAGE
Welcome to our website! Let me take a few moments to tell you about who we are and how we are serving Jesus Christ in the Northern Neck of Virginia.
St. Andrews Presbyterian Church is located close to where the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers flow into the Chesapeake Bay. This historic area has become popular in recent years because of its excellent waterfront properties and quiet lifestyle.
St. Andrews is a relatively new congregation, having been chartered by the Presbyterian Church (USA) in May of 1988. It has been blessed with growth (now 210 members) and the construction of excellent facilities.
The people of St. Andrews believe in Jesus Christ and are eager to share His love. A vivid example may be seen in their support for young people. Although many within the church are retired, they freely share their time to support the Sunday School program and staff the annual Vacation Bible School.
It is also a congregation that values quality in its community service. The members bring a rich variety of skills and backgrounds that they employ in both the church and the community. The presence of St. Andrews members on numerous community boards, agencies, and projects is but one example of this commitment.
Finally, St. Andrews has been given strong lay leaders who take their responsibilities to heart and strive to guide the church with flexibility, creativity and enthusiasm.
It has been a privilege for me to minister with this congregation for the past eighteen years. I would be glad to tell why. Just ask! Even more, come and see for yourself. It would be a delight to meet you and share the things that the Lord is doing in this place.
Tom Coye, Pastor
PASTOR NOTES
October 24, 2010
“BAPTIZED IN WATER”
October 17, 2010 … something special happened that day.
It all began last summer when Jack Cruise, who will soon turn 10, shared with Judy Thomson that he was ready to accept Jesus as his Lord and Savior. He also asked if he could be baptized by immersion at his family’s home by the Chesapeake Bay. (Question: Can Presbyterians do that? Answer: Yes. Though we traditionally baptize by sprinkling, immersion is also acceptable.)
Judy and I were quickly impressed by Jack’s sincerity. We proceeded to have four training sessions with him. Susan May served as his sponsor and together they crafted a very fitting statement of faith. Finally, the Session examined Jack and authorized October 17 as the date for his baptism.
The actual sacrament began during morning worship where Jack publicly professed his faith. Then some 45 congregants and family members traveled to the Cruise home near Reedville to witness the conclusion.
After Judy Thomson shared a thanksgiving prayer for the waters of the Bay, Jack and I waded out about 30 feet. I asked him his name. “Jack Clayton” was the answer. I then lowered him into the water with the ancient words, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.” We returned to the shore where Jack received a blessing and a welcome from those who were gathered. We presented him with a cross and certificate of baptism, said a prayer, and sang “Baptized in Water” to the flowing melody of “Morning Has Broken.”
We were graced with blue skies, gentle breezes, warm affirmations, the spirit of Jesus, and lots of hugs. It was a very good day.
Tom
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