As the days grow shorter and pumpkin spice makes its inevitable return, September brings a feeling of fresh starts. With a new school year, a changing season, and some relief from the summer heat, there’s a sense of renewal in the air. Football season is here too, bringing with it the hope that your team might finally live up to those pre-season expectations. September’s “back-to-school” energy signals new possibilities—whether it’s tackling a class or dreaming of a championship. And just as the season changes, so does our journey here at Yates. While some things remain familiar, new opportunities for growth in faith, service and relationships are waiting for us. Here’s what’s ahead:
Saturday, September 7: A Time of Prayer and Reflection
We’re starting September with a church-wide prayer vigil on Saturday, September 7, from 9:00 AM to noon. The sanctuary will be open, and you’ll find prayer guides available from Yates’ “Companions Along the Way” ministry. This fall’s prayer focus builds on the deacon-led congregational conversations supported by the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. Philippians 4:6 (MSG) reminds us, “Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns.” If you can’t be there in person, you can download a prayer guide at yateschurch.org/pray. And for those who missed our listening sessions, don’t worry—the deacons are planning more.
Thursday, September 13: Serving with Gratitude
Here’s a meaningful way to get involved. Baptist Women in Ministry (BWIM) is celebrating the 60th anniversary of Addie Davis’s ordination—the first woman ordained in the Southern Baptist Convention, right here in Durham! To mark this milestone, BWIM is hosting a symposium on Thursday, September 13, and Yates has been invited to provide the grab-and-go breakfast for the event. It’s a wonderful opportunity to serve and to engage in discussions about women in ministry. If you’re interested in helping or learning more, feel free to reach out to me at christopher@yateschurch.org or contact Lynn Odom at care4godsearth@gmail.com.
GriefShare Ministry and Fall Missions Offerings
I’m excited to announce that our GriefShare ministry is returning this fall. This supportive and confidential group is for anyone navigating the difficult journey of grief after losing a loved one. Led by Paul Harris, Betty Yount, Bruce Hawkins and Anne Bassett, these sessions offer a safe space for healing. Meetings will be held online, and you’ll need to register separately through the central church office. For more details, visit the Yates website or the GriefShare website. Also, our fall missions offerings are in full swing, giving us a chance to support the vital work of our church and partner organizations both locally and globally. Be sure to check out the Mission News in The Messenger each month.
Friends, Inc. Retreat: A Time for Children to Grow and Play
Meanwhile, our children are gearing up for the Friends Inc. Retreat from September 20-22 at Camp Kanata. This retreat offers a fantastic opportunity for our kids to dive into discipleship, worship and fun with friends from local Sister-Churches. Whether it’s canoeing, crafting or engaging in creative worship, there’s something for every child to enjoy and grow from. Weekends like these highlight the joy and energy our youngest disciples bring to Yates. And here’s a little teaser: Camp Cheerio for youth, children and families is just a month away in October!
Sunday, September 29: Festival of Worship & Praise
On Sunday, September 29, our entire worship service will be dedicated to the music ministry. We’ll celebrate God’s presence through music from start to finish. This isn’t just a performance but a chance for deep engagement. We’ll live out Colossians 3:16: “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” I hope you’ll join us and bring a friend to experience this inspiring and uplifting time of worship.
Worship in September: Reflecting on Compassion
Throughout September in worship, we’ll be reflecting on a key aspect of God’s nature: compassion. As we think about how compassion reflects God’s will and way, we’ll celebrate God’s goodness and consider how we can live more like Jesus with each other and in the world. It’s an exciting time to worship and grow together. As Ephesians 4:32 reminds us, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Homecoming: A Celebration to Remember
Let’s talk about homecoming! This year’s celebration on October 6 will include worship, a meal right after and special music from The Continentals. Our hospitality committee will handle the meats and drinks, but everyone is invited to bring their favorite sides and desserts for the feast. Join us for this special time of celebration and enjoy The Continentals’ talents while sharing the occasion with our neighborhood!
What else lies ahead for you and Yates? The only way to find out is by discovering together! Take a step in and share the many gifts of September with the church.
Grace & Peace,