From The Pastor's Pen

Dear Saints of God,

Paul writes, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”  (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

I want to share just how grateful I am to God and to you for the opportunity to serve this beloved church. It has been just a few weeks since I’ve arrived and the welcome extended to both Karen and me is heartwarming. Getting to know you individually, getting to know the church as a family, and getting to know the community in which we live, has been a joy and a blessing. There is a palpable and irresistible spirit alive in the church. I want to highlight just a few examples of where I see that spirit flourish.

One need only look at the collaboration between our Church Historian and Christian Education in their preparation for the upcoming 200th anniversary celebration. I marvel at the creative ways they have immersed our Sunday School children in our church history. It has kindled a curiosity about where we come from and what we are a part of so that we can choose what we want to carry forward. I have faith that we all will rejoice as the children lead their part of our worship on November 10th.

 I rejoice in the work of Generous Giving and Outreach and pray that we all acknowledge the importance of their work. Both give cheerfully of their time, talent, and treasures. Both capture the essence of hope, trust, and faith in God that the Holy Spirit will kindle a cheerful spirit in you as we wrap up our pledge drive and offer our food gifts to those who are hungry.

I give thanks to God for those who organized our kitchen, purchased the mums, decorated the church steps, and deep cleaned the church in preparation for the Westminster Cracker Festival, the Circle of Artists Art Exhibit and Sale, and the wedding that was held on October 26th. So many details, so many people working together, so much love shared; the church sparkled both inside and out. The bridal party and guests couldn’t say enough about how beautiful the church was and how cared for they felt. God was visible amid all this activity.

These are but a portion of the many things I’ve seen in the short time I’ve been here. I look forward to building deep and meaningful relationships as we strive together to live into “God’s will for us in Jesus Christ.”

God’s blessings are certainly upon us. Let us rejoice and give thanks. Your Brother in Christ,

Pastor Russ