On August 8, 1914, Sir Ernest Shackleton and a crew of twenty-seven men embarked from Plymouth, England aboard the ship Endurance. Their objective was to sail to the coast of Antarctica, with plans for a team under Shackleton's leadership to be the first to cross the continent. Unfortunately, the ship got trapped in ice and eventually sank. Prior to its submersion, the crew salvaged vital supplies and moved them to several lifeboats. Despite wanting to take the ship's Bible, Shackleton had to settle for tearing out just a few pages: the 23rd Psalm, a section of the Book of Job, and a few other passages for inspiration during their journey back.

Imagine if we had to curate a faith development program with a limited number of stories for both children and adults. What if we were restricted to just 52 stories? These parables, poems, and proverbs would serve as the foundation of our faith.

Titled “52 for the Journey,” our worship series at Round Hill Community Church runs from September 1, 2024, to August 30, 2025. Through a collaborative effort with the congregation's suggestions and our own additions, we have carefully selected these 52 Biblical passages as our companions for a full year. While it's daunting to think about the inspiring passages we had to leave out, perhaps we possess more than enough to sustain us as we follow the Spirit's guidance.

Embark on this faith-filled adventure with us, as we journey together—individuals of the Way who aspire to witness the realization of God's dreams, both now and in the future.

Bon voyage on this spiritual expedition!

Ed Horstmann, Senior Pastor/Head of Staff

Leslie Kons, Director of Music & Digital Ministry