I announced it Sunday. Our new name for the Church. We are no longer St Michael’s Church. As I was a little unsure of how the congregation would react and then pleasantly surprised at their positive response. So far so good. Oh yea…the name. We are now Lifepath Church. This really makes sense since we have been using the slogan “Together on the Path of Life” for the last two years. The response from our local and blog friends has also been good.
We had been struggling with an identity problem for a long time. Most people in the area think that we are an Episcopal Church. In fact, when we first arrived we discovered that some of the congregation thought so as well. On the web we are listed on dozens of sites as an Episcopal Church. Just as when Abram received a new name, and thereby a new identity, so we hope that it will be with us as well. Hopefully it will remove what has been a huge stumbling block for the Aquidneck Island community. Maybe now they will see us as we are.
If you’re wondering if St Michael minds… I doubt it. He also is on the path of life.
Psalm 16:11 You have made known to me the path of life;
you will fill me with joy in your presence,
with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
April 29, 2008 at 12:04 am
I love the new name! I was very moved by the whole church service on Sunday. I loved it. I love going to church it really puts me in a great mood and I think about it all week.
Thanks alot Father Dave!
You rock!
–Janna
April 29, 2008 at 2:15 pm
I too love the new name! I am really excited about what God is doing on this Island and I am really blessed to be a part of it! Let’s go out there and SHOW what christ is like!
April 29, 2008 at 4:40 pm
Hey, thanks Janna and Suzanne. You both are a real encouragement to me.
April 30, 2008 at 6:12 am
I listened to your announcement over at Joel’s blog. to I sense a bit of a New York accent in you
Love the new name and I am really excited for what you guys have planned.
Oh ya, glad to hear St Michale’s on board
April 30, 2008 at 2:26 pm
Yo. You talkin to me? Lifetime New Yawka. Only 2 and half years in Rhode Island. Thanks for the encouragement.
April 30, 2008 at 2:52 pm
fr. dave you crack me up
New Yawka! and you are very welcome for the comment 
April 30, 2008 at 5:47 pm
I too mentioned to Joel that i love the new name, and i can see God moving in this. Change can be intimidating, but also very encouraging.
Oh, and Go Sox!
May 1, 2008 at 10:10 am
Wow. It isn’t the name “St. Michael’s” that confuses folks on Aquidneck Island – it’s the name of the communion, “Charsimatic Episcopal Church” that throws them. Is the communion going to change the name? Is Lifepath going on a different path? I tried to download your sermon on this, but couldn’t (my computer is showing its age just as I am, I’m afraid). I know you do nothing without seeking God’s face first, so I’m confident that He shall bless this and please know that you are in my prayers daily.
May 10, 2008 at 12:58 am
Lifepath lifepath lifepath! Even on the retreat it was st michaels! I photoshopped a picture for the sign..
See you Sunday!
Father Dave… You better not be on another Hiatus again