Hello Church Family! 

As we turn the calendar to January, we step into the season of Epiphany—a season that invites us to look closely and notice how God's light continues to shine in our everyday lives. Even after the decorations come down and routines return, Epiphany reminds us that God is still revealing God's self in ordinary moments, shared ministry, and faithful community.

One thing that you may not have noticed is our confirmation ministry project. On December 23rd, our confirmation students lived out their faith through action. They put together hot chocolate kits to hand out to our Neighbors at the food pantry. Their hot chocolate service project was a simple but meaningful expression of hospitality and care. In offering warmth and kindness to others, they reminded us that service doesn't have to be complicated to be holy—sometimes it's as simple as showing up with open hands and generous hearts.

January brings the start of a new worship series, Everyday Epiphanies. Throughout the Epiphany season, we'll be exploring how God shows up in familiar places, daily routines, and unexpected encounters. My prayer is that this series helps all of us grow more attentive to the quiet ways God's light breaks into our lives, even when we least expect it.

Also, during this Epiphany season, we are thankful to be sharing worship and ministry alongside our sister church, Grant UMC. This shared season is a beautiful reminder that the light of Christ connects us across communities and strengthens us when we walk together in faith.

I also want to extend a heartfelt thank-you to everyone who helped make our recent open house such a success. It is always a joy to gather and connect as we say thank you for all the love you share with us as a family! 

Finally, January marks the beginning of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE). This season of learning and formation is an important step in deepening skills for pastoral care, listening, and spiritual leadership. During this time, you are all part of my clinical learning experience so I anticipate that I will need your help along this journey. Thank you for your prayers and encouragement as this new chapter begins—work that ultimately strengthens ministry and care within our congregation.

And as we move through this season of light, may we continue to notice God's presence in shared cups of cocoa, gathered worship, new partnerships, and moments of growth. May we trust that God is at work among us—in big ways and small, in the sacred and the everyday.

With gratitude and hope,

 

 

Jess