FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
A Member of the American Baptist Churches, USA

READING, PA.

Staff

Choral Director
Scott Schwartz

Bell Choir Director
Kathy Seltzer

Organist
Vicky Morici

Parish Nurse
Jean Smith

Custodian
Manuel Rivera

From the desk of Pastor Mike Hall

To the Family of Faith Called First Baptist Church of Reading,
 
Recently I attended an organ workshop held at the Allen Organ Company in Macungie.  While I don't play the keyboard, as a church musician I am interested in learning more about what our new worship instrument is capable of producing.  Vicky gives us a good sampling each Sunday and she works diligently to learn about our new organ.  
 
I noticed at the workshop gathering that many different churches were represented among the musicians in attendance.  It seems that when it comes to the challenges of mastering an electronic instrument, with all the bells and whistles that an Allen boasts, denominational distinctions don't much matter.  It was a gathering of church musicians who had a need to know and a few Allen experts with knowledge and experience to share. 
 
Every Sunday morning in our vicinity people enter into a worship setting.  They come for many reasons.  Some never miss, while others only attend occasionally.  Some are new to the church; but others have been going all their lives.  For some, the dress code is designer fashions and only the latest will do.  Others will show up casual, with shorts, shabby jeans and sandals; cool and comfortable 
works best for them.  Many will sing the tried and true hymns of the faithful, while others will sing new choruses accompanied by guitar, drums and whatever instruments are played by local worshippers.
 
What brings people out each Sunday morning?    Why do people come when there are so many other activities?  First of all, I am thankful for those who do come and meet in worship.  I know many come to give thanks and praise for the blessings which God has granted.  Some come to see longtime friends and family.  Some come to be uplifted and inspired to continue in their faith walk, especially when times are tough.  Among the reasons for passing through the church doors might just be the same issue that brought musicians to the Allen showroom and factory.  Worshippers have a need to know. 
 
We need to know more about the Lord who created us and sustains our lives and gives us meaning.  People need to share their journey with others who are on the same path, but who have different gifts with which to serve, and a different set of experiences and knowledge which can help another on his/her journey.  There's a chorus entitled, "People Need the Lord."  Yes, we have a need to know.  That brings God's people to the place of meeting, whether a cut stone and stain-glassed sanctuary, or a cinder-block, one room hall.  People have a deep need to know their Heavenly Father; the Source of wisdom and truth.
 
I encourage you to continue your journey and make Sunday morning worship a regular part of it.  Even if you are away on vacation, find a church and see what God is doing in other places. 
 
Blessings to you and yours-- Pastor Mike