Rev. Craig Goodrich

Rev. Craig Goodrich, Senior Pastor craigg@fpcnaples.org

In one of the most treasured of the psalms, Psalm 46, we hear these words: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam…” On Wednesday, September 28, the waters of Hurricane Ian roared through Naples and much of Southwest Florida, causing great devastation and suffering. Although Naples did not receive the worst of it, many in our church and community have homes which suffered flooding damage from the storm surge and some have lost vehicles. Thankfully, most of us by now have had our power restored. Surprisingly, the church itself fared well with no water damage. The power stayed on. The only damage was a broken window in the pastor’s office. I am still working on the symbolism of that. And this past Sunday we worshipped and prayed. Rex gave a great sermon, encouraging us to have faith, and calling all of us to work constructively as “repairers of the breach” (Isaiah). After worship, we had a “town hall” attended by approximately 70 people in which we talked about our hurricane experiences, and shared concerns and information on those who suffered damage. And we asked, “What are we to do?” “Where is God working for the good in this? And how can we help?” In response, your Session has approved the creation of a Hurricane Ian Relief Fund (HIRF) which, modeled on our Coronavirus Emergency Fund (CERF), is open to receive donations that will be distributed to agencies providing relief. We are also encouraging contributions to the Pastor’s Emergency Assistance Fund which is available on a confidential basis to assist individuals who are connected to our congregation with emergency expenses. We encourage you to contribute to both funds. For additional information on these funds and how you can contribute, please contact Debbie Savage, Director of Finance, at debbies@fpcnaples.org or 239.262.1311. In addition, we have opened Spencer Hall for those still without power or internet, providing a place for coffee, WIFI and charging cell phones. There is certain additional action to be taken as we learn more of the needs of our congregation and community. And in that regard, we are so grateful to our Deacons who have been calling all of our members to see how they are doing and sharing the love and compassion of Christ. Please let us know how you are doing and of your concerns. And do pray. Here is a good place to start, a portion of a prayer by John Baillie in A Diary of Private Prayer: “Lord of my life, whose commands I am eager to keep, whose fellowship I am eager to enjoy, and to whose service I am eager to be loyal, I kneel before you as you send me out to serve you. Thank you, Lord, for this new day. For its gladness and brightness, for its many hours waiting to be filled with joyful and helpful labor; for its open doors of possibility; for its hope of new beginnings. Stir up in my heart the desire to make the most of today’s opportunities. Do not let me break any of yesterday’s promises, or leave unrepaired any of yesterday’s wrongs. Do not let me see anyone in distress and pass by on the other side. Give me the strength to confront any mountain of duty or bad habit. Where action of mine can make this world a better place, where word of mine can cheer a sad heart or strengthen a weak will, where prayer of mine can serve Christ’s kingdom, there let me act and speak and pray... Amen” (A Diary of Private Prayer, Day 3, Morning).

Blessing and peace to you. Faithfully and Gratefully,

FROM THE PULPIT

October 2 World Communion Sunday Rev. Rex Childs “Increase Our Faith” October 9 Rev. Craig Goodrich “No One Alone” October 16 Rev. Rex Childs “Justice Through Persistence” October 23 Dr. George Wirth “Who Cares?” October 30 Kirkin’ O’ the Tartan Rev. Craig Goodrich “Working for Good”