Septembeard
September: For the One, Right Here in Our Community
September is here, and with it comes a new season of opportunities for us as a church family. School is back in session, fall is approaching, and our community is preparing for one of Sullivan’s biggest traditions—the Corn Festival.
For us as followers of Jesus, these aren’t simply activities on the church calendar. They are opportunities to live out our calling to be FOR THE ONE.
I used to grow a beard in the month of September to help raise cancer awareness. This was an outward way to help get the word out for people to see. There is something similar in November that I now participate in: No Shave November. Either way, the whole point was to do something people could see. A tangible way for the world to see.
In Matthew 5:14–16, Jesus tells His disciples, “You are the light of the world.” He goes on to say that our light should shine before others so that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven.
Notice that Jesus doesn’t say, “Stay inside where it’s safe.” He says, shine where people can see you.
That means reaching our community for Jesus isn’t just about inviting someone to church on Sunday. It’s about being present in the places where God has already placed us—our neighborhoods, schools, workplaces, ball fields, restaurants, community events, and yes, even the Corn Festival.
Serving Our Community: Corn Festival | September 16-19
The Corn Festival is one of those unique opportunities to simply be present.
From September 16-19 we have the opportunity to serve alongside our community, meet people, build relationships, and demonstrate the love of Christ through practical service.
Jesus said in Mark 10:45 that He “did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
When we serve, we reflect Jesus.
So we’re encouraging everyone at Sullivan FCC to sign up for a 2 hour time slot to help kids make some simple crafts at the Corn Festival. You don’t have to be outgoing. You don’t have to have all the right words. You simply need to be willing to show up, serve, smile, listen, and love people.
Sometimes a conversation with a simple act of kindness can become the beginning of a relationship that eventually leads someone to Jesus.
Let’s be the church outside the walls of the church.
Don’t Do Life Alone: Join a Small Group
Reaching people for Jesus also begins with becoming the kind of disciples who are growing in Jesus.
That’s why small groups matter.
The early church didn’t simply gather for a weekly worship service. Acts 2:42–47 describes believers learning together, eating together, praying together, serving one another, and sharing life together.
Christianity was never meant to be lived alone.
Our small groups provide a place to know God, know others, and grow together. Whether you’ve been following Jesus for decades or you’re still figuring out what you believe, there’s a place for you.
Sign up for a small group this month and take the next step toward deeper community and deeper discipleship.
Looking Ahead: ICOM | November 12–14
November will bring another incredible opportunity to live FOR THE ONE through the International Conference on Missions (ICOM), November 12–14.
Jesus’ final words to His disciples were a command to go and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19–20). Missions isn’t a program reserved for a select few. It’s part of the identity of every follower of Jesus.
We have the opportunity to learn about missions, meet missionaries, discover ways to serve, and allow God to expand our vision for what He is doing around the world.
Registration is now open, so make plans to join us for ICOM in November. Visit this link to register: https://theicom.causemachine.com/attendees
Use the following discount codes to purchase tickets.
Family Registration: 2026STLFAMILY
Individual Registration: 2026STLADULT
College Registration: No Code Needed
The church already has a block of rooms reserved and we are paying for one of the two nights for you. That means your room and ticket will only cost $200! We will also be taking a bus for those who need it. Email the office if you’re interested in going.
This September, Let’s Go!
Our vision is simple: FOR THE ONE.
There is someone in Sullivan who needs to know that Jesus loves them. There is a neighbor who needs hope. A coworker who needs encouragement. A family that needs community. A person who may be one conversation away from hearing the gospel.
And God may want to use you to reach them.
So this month, let’s get outside the walls. Let’s serve our community. Let’s join a small group. Let’s prepare ourselves to live on mission.
Because the mission of Jesus isn’t just something we talk about on Sunday.
It’s something we live every day.
Sullivan FCC—let’s be a church that is FOR THE ONE, right here in our community and wherever God sends us.
Shalom,
Pastor Lyle