Dear Friends,
I understand that this past year has been profoundly challenging for each of us, and for our church family. I know that it has been, without a doubt, one of the most challenging periods of my pastoral ministry.
I know that each of you have your own stories of difficulty, frustration, and grief during these times. All of us have suffered in various ways due to the broader changes that life has brought. Some of us have lost work or suffered other financial loss. Many of us are missing out on special experiences, things long planned and anticipated that now will be impossible to replicate or replace. All of us are suffering from isolation and the normal joys of life in the community with one another, some have even lost loved ones and close friends.
Yet, I want you to know that I am also seeing and hearing many beautiful things in our congregation that are encouraging me during these times, as I speak with you and hear your stories.
As we enter a new season of following Jesus in the mist of the present challenges, I thought it might be encouraging for you to know some of the things I see happening in our church.
I see siblings learning to love and appreciate one another in new ways. I see families ordering their lives with much greater care and concern.
I see those who are employed working with new creativity and skill as their jobs and industries have changed.
I see husbands and wives learning to work through conflict and challenges and loving one another.
I see medical workers in our congregation serving with wisdom and faithfulness.
I see our ordained Deacons and Deaconesses serving our congregation with overwhelming love.
I see church members calling one another and checking in, listening, and praying for one another.
I see a faithful group of men and women meeting for Bible Studies on Wednesday’s each week to learn God’s Word and pray for our church and our neighbors.
I see church staff members reaching out, listening, and praying for others.
I see a team of men and women working hard to make sure worship services are prepared for each week.
I see those in financial need growing in faith and trusting the Lord to provide.
I see a congregation full of people eager to serve others in whatever way they can.
I see families and individuals continuing to faithfully give their tithes and offerings to support our church’s ministries.
What I see most of all is how Jesus is strengthening us as a congregation and deepening our walk with Him during this time.
I am sure as we come through this and enter this season, we will be a stronger, more caring, family centered church. How could it be otherwise? And I am incredibly confident that we will be a people with softer hearts, with stronger practices of prayer and worship, and with a deeper love for Jesus and one another.
I encourage you to join me in praying for this season in our lives and believing God that 2023 will be a faith filled, Christ centered, and prosperous time for everyone here at Chippewa Lake Community Church.
With Much Love, Pastor Roger.
