A Message from Doug Robinson-Johnson, Pastor

There are many reasons people take that first step toward a church.  For some the Church seems like a good place to raise a family–a place which offers good values for the kids and meaningful support for parents.  Others tell me they are returning to religion after a long absence.  They outgrew their childhood faith and church and they are looking for that next step.  Some people tell me they come for the cookies and community but consider themselves agnostic about God and Jesus.  Other people tell me they are at the end of their rope and hope that the Church will be at least as helpful as Alcoholics Anonymous.

You have your own reasons for exploring United Parish of Auburndale.  Take your time.  Take a good look around.  You don’t have to think about this like buying a house or even a car, though we can certainly offer you shelter and a journey!  Think of us like a lily pad for a jumping frog.  That’s the way author Anne Lamott explained houses of worship in her book Traveling Mercies.  She praises those places that helped her make her way across a swamp of fear and doubt.  Maybe we can do that for you at this stage in your spiritual journey!

I’d love the opportunity to meet you at the front door of the sanctuary where I stand every Sunday before worship at 10am.  And I think you’d love the opportunity to meet other people who have taken those first steps and found kindred spirits!