Pathfinder

 In the book of order (an instructional manual of sorts for congregations in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church), Ruling Elders are called “to watch over the spiritual welfare of [the] congregation.” As a session, we have been talking about how we can do this better. One of the options that has worked well in other churches is to assign ministries of the church to an elder. This would lead to each ministry being checked in on regularly to see what people serving in that ministry need. If more volunteers were needed, this elder would help the leadership recruit for that ministry. If the ministry needed more funds, this elder would communicate that need to the rest of the session. If you were serving in that ministry and you needed direction or care, you would come to this elder first, knowing that they were familiar with your ministry and were committed to helping you. If you have suggestions about how these ministries can improve, even if you are not part of the ministry, this is ...

  We pray this newsletter finds you well as we enjoy the blessings of the summer season together. Below are several updates and encouragements from our recent Session meeting. Psalm 8 Devotion During our July Session gathering, we reflected together on the beauty and depth of Psalm 8. This psalm lifts our eyes to the majesty of God and the wonder of His creation: “O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!” We were reminded of God’s glory displayed in the heavens and of the remarkable place He has given humanity within His creation. We encourage everyone to spend time reading and meditating on Psalm 8 this month as a source of worship, awe, and gratitude. Prayer & Support for Our Church Family This month, our Session spent time praying for the needs of our congregation and the ministries of our church. Please join us in praying for: • Members experiencing sickness, physical challenges, or ongoing medical needs • Strength and encouragement for ...

  The Trustees continue to complete projects under the radar and behind the scenes. We are very fortunate to have folks who show up and get things done. This includes both past and present trustees. All of our annual inspections are done with the exception of the elevator. We have a new inspector who is trying to fit us in. Our former carpet cleaner Brad Patch, who served us into his 80s, has retired. We got a quote from ALL-Pro to complete this work. It is hopeful that they can make it fair week to get this done. We hope to complete some preventative stonework, drainage work and exterior painting. If you feel compelled to jump in and lend a hand, please contact Joe or myself. If you see something you think needs attention let a trustee know. The trustees are Brian Burch, Mark Boyce, Jim Stott, Duane Flower, Scott Lufkin, Guy Wilson, and Co-chairs Joe Lohret and Lou Hoffis. Lou Hoffis for the Trustees

  I have always embraced the fact that I am a girl dad...and granddad, and brother, and uncle! I will frequently joke that I am “awash in a sea of estrogen”, but the truth is I relish the responsibility of raising Christian women and teaching them how to navigate safely and successfully in a world skewed disproportionately towards males and rife with misogyny, sexism and violence towards women and girls. If you search the Bible for verses addressing fathers and daughters, you will find that they are slim or none. Any verse dealing with parenting either refers to “children” as a group or “sons” specifically. If you have a teaching bible the commentary will inform you that, although the verse specifies sons, daughters are “implied” to be included. World renowned mystery author Agatha Christie, whose books have sold more than two billion copies, is considered the best-selling novelist of all time. From my perspective, her take on paternal love for daughters (or granddaughters et al)...