Reflections by Rev. Dan Bogre

Dear Friends and Family of RRUMC,

I was recently helping one of our very faithful church members unload her car, which was filled with a trunk load of donations for the Twice Blessed Free Store.

That act alone was remarkable, but what followed was even more special. The two of us had the opportunity to chat about life, faith, and upbringing. We talked about our parents, our grandparents, and the life lessons passed down to us by our incredibly loving and caring families. During our conversation, she shared a wonderful quote her father often said: “Your actions are making so much noise, I can’t hear your words.” How beautiful is that!

As I continue to serve this amazing congregation, I see this sentiment reflected time and time again. You, the people of RRUMC, are so hard to hear because your actions are making so much noise in this church, in this community, and in the world. I hear it when you volunteer during a worship service on Sunday morning. I hear your actions while you serve at the Twice Blessed Free Store at our Story Church Cleveland campus. I heard it when we all came together to pack over 21,000 meals for “Rise Against Hunger” to be sent overseas for families in need. That day, our actions were so loud—with laughter, music, the gong, and the clapping of hands each time we packed another thousand meals.

I am celebrating that this is the church God has called us to be, and the church we are in so many different ways. St. Francis of Assisi captured this beautifully in his famous quote: “Preach the Gospel at all times, use words if necessary.” The Gospel, or the “Good News” of Jesus Christ, is not lived out in words but in deeds. My hope and prayer for all the people of RRUMC—whether you are a lifelong member, visitor, attendee, youth, or once-a-month person—is that everyone will preach the gospel of Jesus Christ at all times, using words only when necessary. May the words of that amazing church member’s father ring true in our heart, mind, soul, and strength. I hope the actions of RRUMC will make so much noise that people cannot hear our words. May that always be our story.

Peace and Blessings,
Rev. Dan