From the Pastor's Desk 1/6/2022

Happy Epiphany! This is the day we celebrate Jesus being revealed to the Gentiles as the Light of the World. The magi have made it to Bethlehem, and are kneeling in worship as they offer their gifts to Christ. What gifts can you offer this year, to reflect Christ's light into the world around you? This Sunday is also Baptism of our Lord, when we remember that we, too, are baptized into the family of God, and we have a part in Christ's mission to heal the sick, bind up the broken-hearted, and bring good news to the poor. As we affirm our baptismal promises of presence, prayers, gifts, service, and witness, you'll get to hear from Lloyd Petersen this Sunday. Lloyd will be sharing information about the Midwest Mission Distribution Center, where we plan to send a mission team in June. Let Lloyd's passion for this ministry inspire you to participate in it with your own presence, prayers, gifts, service, and witness!

Be sure to mark your calendar for January 23rd, when we will gather after Sunday School for a potluck meal (bring your favorite dish to share!) and a time of conversation guided by Rev. Susan Nienaber. We'll take a look at our congregation's behavior patterns, how they've brought us to where we are, and how they can help us see God's plan for our future.

It's a great way to begin the new year, and I hope you will join us! See you in church, Church!

Pastor Jo Anne