Message From Our Pastor "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity but a spirit of power and love and self-control." 2 Timothy: 1:7 ​ Dear Friends, “God speaks through 51%,” is a Presbyterian joke of sorts. It calls attention to the fact that while Presbyterians struggle to decide what God is calling us to believe and do here and now, the best we can do is a democratic vote. In our system everyone has the responsibility to discern for themselves through study, prayer and listening to other points of view what they believe God is calling us to believe and do here and now. Ralph Waldo Emerson once compared Monarchy to Democracy and he likened Monarchy to a strong ship that sailed the sea that went along well until it hit a rock or an iceberg and sank quickly. Democracy on the other hand he likened to a river raft made out of logs lashed together. The raft always floats about two feet under the water but it will never sink. I am truly blessed to be the Pastor of Freedom Plains United Presbyterian Church, a raft in the rapids of life. We are a community that values difference and respects opinions. We are not perfect and at times we are all wet. But we are struggling to be faithful to what God is calling us to be and do, here and now. Maybe you are someone who is looking for a church home in Dutchess County. We would love to welcome you aboard as we struggle to face the rapids together. Bring your hopes and dreams, your beliefs and opinions, and maybe your boots. Peace, Paul Lent