Welcome to Homecoming Sunday at Plymouth UCC! On September 7, we begin our liturgical year that marks an extraordinary milestone—155 years of ministry, faith, and service together as a congregation. All are invited to join in this joyful celebration by wearing green and gold, colors that symbolize growth, rebirth and renewal, and the enduring value of harmony and unity among us.
Our Homecoming’s theme, “Creatively Maladjusted,” draws inspiration from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who reminded us that there are circumstances—like injustice, poverty, and hatred—where we must refuse to become adjusted to what is. We must purposefully choose another path not often taken, to be the progressive church that is imperfect perhaps, but ever reflective and growing in faith and good works.
In addition, we look to scripture to help us rediscover who we are: “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of the mind…”
To be creatively maladjusted means to take a courageous, imaginative stand for what is right, with God as our helper, finding new solutions and fresh hope where societal habit tells us to settle for the status quo.
We are change agents and movement makers!
This anniversary is a time to remember the generations who have faithfully walked before us, building a foundation of love, radical welcome, and community impact. Today, we give thanks for every act of kindness, every word of prayer, and every bold and conscious expression of faith that has shaped Plymouth UCC.
Whether a lifelong member, a newcomer, or someone seeking spiritual home after time away, everyone is welcome at Plymouth—and your presence adds joy and purpose to our celebration. As we gather in green and gold, let these colors declare our unity, diversity, and hope for the future. In addition, our faithful choir is back; we're adding an upcoming new member-in-covenant orientation; childcare on the first Sundays, and faith formation opportunities, to include hands-on ministry.
Homecoming also signals the exciting start of our annual stewardship campaign, noting that at Plymouth, stewardship is more than financial giving. Stewardship means actively choosing to follow the way of Jesus in how we live, give, and serve in our church, community, and world. This is a holy opportunity to discern how each of us might support our shared mission in ways that are meaningful and life-giving.
This year, let us move forward in faith, refusing to join in indifference, gradualism, or the eternal making of plans that immobilizes our action. Let us be creatively maladjusted: championing justice, practicing compassion, and walking forward in the radical love of Jesus. Let us step into this new chapter with gratitude, imagination, and the assurance that God still has more for us to do and be.
With joy on the journey,
Rev. Dr. Kelle Brown