Hello Church Family!

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, we are reminded that fall is a season of change. The harvest comes in, neighbors gather, and families make memories around bonfires, football games, and festivals. In the church, this is a season where we lean into both tradition and possibility. We are asking new questions, building new ministries, and celebrating the ways God is at work among us.

Here are a few highlights I want to share with you:

 

Big Questions Sermon Series

 

In worship, we continue our Big Questions sermon series. Each week, we’ve been digging into honest, sometimes uncomfortable questions of faith. This month, we’ll ask:

• October 5 – Is It OK to Doubt?

• October 12 – What Do I Do with the Bible?

• October 19 – Can I Be a Part of That Church?

• October 26 – Does any of this even matter?

I want you to know that these are not just random questions. They’re the real struggles many people carry. In fact, these are questions that you all have asked me.  My prayer is that this series offers not just answers, but a sense of welcome: a place where every question can find a home in God’s presence.

Bishop’s Inspire Awards

On Saturday, October 4, the Bishop’s Inspire Awards will take place at the Fred Maytag II Scout Center in Des Moines. This red-carpet evening will feature music, storytelling, and the celebration of ministries across Iowa—everything from the Best New Ministry to the Best Rural/Small Church Ministry, and many more. It’s a night to be reminded that God is doing new things, not only here in Griswold and Grant, but across the whole Conference. I will be going because our circuit has been nominated for Best Circuit Ministry.

 

Welcoming our new District Superintendent

On Sunday, October 12, Rev. Kwang Song will be installed as the new District Superintendent of the Southwest District Iowa UM Church at Atlantic First UMC (2:00–4:00 pm). This is a wonderful opportunity for us to celebrate his leadership and pray for the new season ahead in our district.

 

Halloween Trick-or-Treat

This year, we will continue the tradition of hosting free hot dogs, chips, and hot chocolate on Halloween here at the church. Anyone who wants to set up a booth and hand out candy in a “trunk-or-treat” style can do so. Please just let Amy or me know so we have enough tables ready. We will follow the hours that the city has for Halloween night.

 

Faithful Connections Ministry – Sign-up papers are on the table in the Upper Room.

One of the most exciting things this fall is the start of Faithful Connections. This ministry is designed to pair church members with either those who are homebound or the youth of our congregation. Already, I’ve seen the excitement as people prepare to write their first notes, share stories, and reach across the generations to remind one another: “You are not forgotten. You are part of us.”

Letters will be sent out soon with more information about whom you are connected with so we can officially start this season of faithful connections on October 5. If you have any questions, please reach out to me or Amy.

October here at GUMC is a month that holds both reflection and celebration. I hope that you’ll join in worship, in connection, and in fun as we continue to ask big questions, care for one another, and shine the light of Christ into our community                                                                         

Blessings to you all!  - Jess