Monthly Letter from Pastor Jess:
Hello Church!
As the fields around us start to quiet and the final harvests are gathered in, we find ourselves reflecting on all that God has provided. November is a great time to pause, give thanks, and celebrate both the fruits of the earth and the faith that sustains us.
We are starting our Farm to Table worship series. In this series, we are invited to see God’s hand in every part of harvest – from the soil to the seed to the table and community. Each Sunday, we will explore how our spiritual lives mirror the rhythms of the land. Don’t forget that on November 2, we will also celebrate All Saints' Sunday with Communion and a remembrance of our saints who have gone before us. And on November 9, I invite you to drive your tractors to church and stay after for a tractor ride and fellowship.
We continue our Harvest Week with our Harvest Meal on November 12 from 4:30 – 7 pm. Just like previous years, it will be DRIVE-THROUGH ONLY. The meal is $14.00 per person. Please see the flyer for the menu and other information.
This year, GMA has decided that we will not have a Thanksgiving worship service. But I hope that as we move toward Thanksgiving, may we each take a moment to count our blessings: the people we share life with, the ministries that shape us, and the God who provides more than we could ever ask or imagine. Let us be a church that not only gives thanks but lives thankfully because gratitude grows best when it’s shared.
Advent also starts at the end of November. Poinsettias are $10.00 this year. Please sign up in the upper room, and we will get them ordered. Also, Hanging of the Greens will be November 23, after worship. We will have soup and sandwiches provided for a light meal.
Finally, I want to bring up our continued ministries that support connection and faith-building.
-
Faithful Connection is in full swing this year, including not only our youth but pen pals with some of our homebound friends.
-
A Team Confirmation is also happening around the circuit. Thanks to all who helped host our first Sunday here at Griswold. Next month, we head to worship with Red Oak UMC.
-
2nd Thursdays are a favorite of mine because I get to have lunch with my Heritage House Crew and then go have pizza with my Table Talk Peeps! By the end of the day, my heart, soul, and stomach are all full!!
Friends, may you know that while the season may change, our calling remains: to be people who see God’s goodness in everyday moments: in shared meals, warm smiles, letters of encouragement, and faithful acts of service.
May our hearts remain open, our hands ready to serve, and our tables always set with welcome.
Blessings,
Jess


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