We begin the New Year, seeking to put Christ’s love into action to transform lives in the community. One way for the church to achieve the vision and mission that God is calling us to as a community is to draw upon Scripture, a means of God’s grace, so that we can become deeply rooted and equipped to go beyond the church walls.

I am excited to lead Salem UMC on a journey through the Bible in 2026. And everyone is invited! We will begin with Genesis in January and continue through Revelation in December. I know this sounds like a lot to read the Bible in a year. But it can be done.

I can already guess that you might be thinking There is no way I can read that much scripture or Salem has already done this in a small group, I don’t think I will have time, or I don’t think that is possible. Or maybe you have a different perspective. That sounds interesting. I have never done that before and would like to give it a try. 

No matter where you find yourself, The Bible Year isn’t about perfection. It is about finding space in our busy lives to read, listen, and hear from God. It is about being curious and asking questions. It is about growing in faith individually and communally, and in discipleship. The good news is that there are several ways each person can participate

~ Pastor Monica Childers