On September 30, the City Council of Kansas City, Missouri, presented a special action resolution honoring our church’s Centennial. I was honored to receive the action, along with Lesley Holt, co-chair of the Centennial, from our member, Councilwoman Andrea Bough who also represents our district.

It read in part…WHEREAS, the contributions of Country Club Christian Church to the community and the world extend beyond walls and physical structure of the magnificent building on Ward Parkway, but include strong focus on outreach and service to the broader community, including service to and partnerships with Sheffield Place, Hartman Elementary School, Independence Boulevard/Micah Ministries and Della Lamb, to name a few; and

WHEREAS, in believing that the love and grace of God is freely given to all people, regardless of zip code, financial status, race, sexual orientation or gender expression, it embodies the message of “all means all”; NOW THEREFORE,

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:

That the Mayor and Council hereby recognize the 100th anniversary of Country Club Christian Church and the outreach and service to the broader community; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution be spread upon the Minutes of the Council in testimony thereof and that a copy hereof be presented Rev. Carla Aday as a symbol of the Mayor and Council’s respect and high regard for Country Club Christian Church putting its message into action for their community.

This moving moment reminded me that we exist, not only for our members but for our city. We serve not only the underserved but we also contribute to the social fabric of our larger neighborhood and community.

I am extremely happy that our first action as a congregation following this Sunday’s Centennial will be the planting of 100 trees in Northeast Kansas City. As our roots come from Northeast Kansas City 100 years ago, it is fitting that we put down roots there for the whole city. We will provide a physical green canopy for streets and families. We shelter one another with grace and common action for hope.

I think the city missionary, Frank Bowen who first invited small groups to form in Brookside and dream of a church on the far south edge of town, would be pleased to see that you, Country Club Christian Church have been a blessing to our city.

Grace and Peace,
Carla