A statement attributed to the great theologian Emil Brunner proclaims, “The church exists by mission as a fire exists by burning.” If there is no mission, there is no church. At Highland, we seek to adhere to this guideline.
But mission is not only that which reaches beyond the walls of the church into the community and the world. It also includes the myriad of ways in which members of the congregation serve their Savior by contributing energy, intelligence, imagination and love in order that the church might be faithful to its calling.
An active Board of Deacons calls regularly on sick and shut-in members; a faithful Board of Trustees cares for the property and business affairs of the church; our Session (Board of Elders) maintains oversight over the worship, fellowship, nurture and outreach of our congregation. And individuals perform countless services each week as a part of Highland’s efforts to offer authentic service to Jesus Christ.
With the guidance of the Holy Spirit and reliance upon Jesus Christ, we strive to be the church that God has in mind.
Since its founding, Mission has been integral to Highland’s connection with the community. The church building is currently the site for many community activities, including Highland’s Clothing Closet Mission,a Lyme Disease Support Group, an Al-Anon Support Group, and Girl Scout troops.
In addition, Highland is involved in many other outreach efforts, including providing support for Habitat for Humanity, participation in community blood drives, and the operation of Harford Hammers, a cooperative mission among Presbyterian churches.
We have a strong partnership with Mason-Dixon Community services and with a local nursing home ministry, bringing support and fellowship to the sick, needy, and elderly. As a congregation and community we also support Operation Christmas Child’s Shoe-box Drive each year and participate in the annual Souper Bowl of Caring Project to help stamp out hunger right in our local communities.
Highland also has a long tradition of involvement with world-wide mission, Cuban Partnerships, and with the West Virginia Advocacy. Beginning three years ago, Highland has had members travel each summer to South Dakota to serve on the area Indian Reservations, with last year sending 9 members to the Dakota Porcupine Learning Camp for children to do “hands on” projects in support of efforts sponsored by Baltimore Presbytery. Each year, a significant portion of our annual budget is designated for mission support, and in 2001 we established an endowment fund to provide for mission efforts well into the future.
Our Highland Dakota Mission team is currently working to raise funds for their return trip to serve at the Porcupine Bible Camp again this summer – if you are interested in making a donation or possibly interested in joining the mission team, please call the church office for more information.
Click here for our Mission Brochure.
Porcupine Bible Camp 2016
More information and Photos to come!
