Why are we (as Christians) such a fractious group? Our communities are shrinking and some seem paralyzed. There is in the county a disconnectedness between protestant churches. Worry itself shows a lack of trust, and the root meaning is disconnectedness and isolation. The opposite is love and devotion. And unity.

Let’s come together on Valentine’s Day weekend, to the claims of Christ on our hearts. To practice deference to other Christians we do not know enough about. We will gather to worship Sunday night at 6:30 p.m., behind the Post Office at Great Island Presbyterian Church.

There will be a smorgasbord of music from local choirs and praise bands. We will be singing songs about our love for Jesus and praising our Creator. We will be about the ten(der) commandments, and their creation by the boundless, faithful Father-love of the Living God.

In John 17 Jesus prays for all believers: “I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one — I in them and you in me — so that they may be brought to complete unity.” (John 17:20-23)

So, let’s come together to try something very old, and very new. When we might set aside denominational differences and stand together in our mutual need for Jesus. A time when we might consider Christ in our midst, and practice deference to other Christians we know little about. My prayer is that God will see our devotion to his Son and give us courage and wisdom for our days. An offering will be collected for the ongoing ministry of the One Gallon Challenge.

Let’s come together! On Sunday, Feb. 15, at 6:30 p.m., at Great Island Presbyterian Church in Lock Haven.

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Finding Faith is written by area pastors. This week’s column comes from Pastor Taylor Camerer of Great Island Presbyterian Church, Lock Haven.