Pastor’s eNote: Weekly Update

Greetings Friends!

I am thankful for you! It was good to praise God together on Sunday for the freedom we have in Christ, and also acknowledge those who are not yet free. Our God, who sees those in pain and hears the cries of the afflicted, may be calling us to do something. I have been pondering the truth of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s words, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, “What are you doing for others?” This is the sacrificial love of Christ revealed in us. Holy Spirit, lead and guide us!

Wednesday night I overheard our youth enjoying big fun with Jayde McCarroll, our interim SPU leader with a few others assisting. One of the highlights was a time of sharing and songs led by Modern Worship Director Lisa Moe on her acoustic guitar. I am encouraged by our youth growing in faith and enjoying each other.

Our excitement is growing too, as we saw new flooring in the foyer and on the platform installed last week. Both spaces look larger and fresher with the upgrades. We look forward to having the carpet and pew upholstery addressed in the coming weeks. It’s going to take some patience as all the pews cannot be reupholstered at one time. But any short-term inconvenience is well worth the end result of a refreshed and welcoming Sanctuary space. I am especially grateful to our Facilities Committee and Staff, who are planning and working hard every week to get this space clean and ready for worship on Sunday.

On Tuesday, January 16th at 6pm, we will host our first Foster Family Support Group of 2024. Along with a delicious homemade dinner made by some in the Samaritans Class, parents will receive training from the SPU Dean of Psychology, Family and Community, Dr. Katy Tangenberg. We also look forward to welcoming the kids back to gym games and crafts in our space.

This Sunday, our preacher will be Rev. Dr. Brian Lugioyo, Dean of the SPU Seminary and Professor of Theology & Ethics, as well as an elder in the Free Methodist Church. Following the service you are invited to our Fostering Hope Open House, where you can see our outreach to foster youth and families and enjoy homemade muffins at the Sunday Café down the hall in the 4th Floor FFMC Library. We hope you plan to come to this time of sharing and sweet fellowship!

Grace & Peace,

Pastor Camille Pook

(January 16, 2024)