Monthly Letter from Pastor Jess:
Friends-
I've heard it said that June is the gateway to summer and I absolutely believe that!
The school year is over, summer schedules begin to pick up, gardens start growing, and the church begins to move into a different rhythm of ministry and community life. Even though routines change, ministry certainly does not slow down around here!
I am thankful to announce that on May 30th, I participated in the completion of my Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) program. This season of learning has stretched me, challenged me, and helped me grow in deeper ways of listening, caring, and being present with others. I am grateful for the encouragement many of you have shown throughout this process.
As for worship, we wind up our Follow the Leader series June 7th. Then on June 14th, as I am gone for Annual Conference, Grant and Griswold will worship together at Griswold in a fun multi-generational lead worship service.
Following Annual Conference I will be entering a season of renewal leave. I am thankful for the opportunity to rest, spend time with family, and return refreshed for the busy ministry seasons ahead. During this time, Grant and Griswold will be worshiping together at Griswold. Thank you for supporting healthy rhythms of rest and renewal in ministry life.
Other summer ministries include:
Grub Club, where we are able to connect with children, families, and our community through food, fellowship, and care! As always, meals are FREE FOR ALL AGES!
Mark your calendar for Old Soldiers Weekend Parade in July. Community events like this may seem simple, but they are important opportunities to be visible, welcoming, and connected to the life of our towns. Be sure to watch for information if you would like to help or walk alongside the church parade entry.
And while August may still feel far away, plans are already underway for Vacation Bible School! VBS will again be multigenerational and will take place on August 23rd this year. Keep an eye out for registration information, volunteer opportunities, and ways you can help support this important ministry.
As summer begins, I pray we continue finding ways to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously, both inside the church and out in our communities.
Blessings,
Jess


Jessica (Jess) Jacobsen
Email: jessica.jacobsen@iaumc.net