Dear Friends,



Change is often uncomfortable. This weekend’s shift to standard time—setting clocks back one hour—may seem minor, but it reminds us how even small disruptions can unsettle us. Greater changes, such as the loss of a loved one or health challenges, can be far more difficult.

However, being a changemaker means choosing to respond intentionally and compassionately to the needs around us. Last week, we reflected on the parable of the Good Samaritan. While others passed by a wounded man, one person stopped, offered care, and ensured his recovery. This story challenges us to act rather than observe.

Many have experienced moments of helplessness, hoping someone would intervene. Sadly, the “Bystander Effect”—where individuals are less likely to help when others are present—remains prevalent. This phenomenon contradicts God’s vision for humanity. Isaiah speaks of being a light to the nations, a calling echoed in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

As followers of Christ, we are called to seek justice, show compassion, and take action. We must not be passive spectators but active participants in healing and hope. By working together, thinking creatively, and empowering one another, we can make meaningful change. This mission is foundational to our church, and it’s why I continue to support it—so we remain a beacon of service in our community.

My hope is that you will consider being a changemaker through your pledge of time, talents, and treasurers, so that FPC of Mt Clemens can continue to be that beacon of light in the darkness.

I thank God for you,

Pastor Kathy Nealand

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Worship Series: Changemakers

A Changemaker is a risk-taker, someone who puts their faith into action to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Jesus was a Changemaker. The Good News is… so are we. Made in the image of God, sharing in the purposes of Jesus, empowered by the Spirit, we are the “assets” we’ve been looking for. Our wealth lies in the Compassion, Collaboration, Creativity, and Empowerment that sustains us through change, for change, for the sake of a better world. Join us as we hatch new ideas and fly to new heights, risking something big for something good.

Sunday, October 26, 2025 - Compassion - Changemaking starts with compassion. Jesus tells his disciples, “Take a look.” As people of faith who want to make a difference, we must start with compassion: with connection, with seeing and “suffering with.” The source of this deep compassion, and the source of strength to be a part of the change, is God’s love.

Sunday, November 2, 2025 - Collaboration - Jesus didn’t do this work alone, and you can’t, either. The key thing Jesus did when starting ministry was to gather a group of people, a team of disciples. He didn’t do it alone but in collaboration. Partnerships and joining others are essential parts of changemaking. Like the African proverb: “If you want to go fast, do it alone. If you want to go far, do it together.”

Sunday, November 19, 2025 - Creativity - We have the capacity to be creative because God is creative. Look at creation, at diversity. We are made in God’s image. We have everything we need to make change; we have enough. We just need to stretch our imaginations, break out of constrained thinking.

Sunday, November 23, 2025 - Empowerment - Like Jesus, changemakers use power differently. Jesus was a leader, but he led in a different way—he shared and gave away power rather than amassing it. Changemaking is about a deeper restoring, healing, uplifting, liberating, and unburdening of others.

This series was developed by the Worship Design Studio.