Trusting God in the In-Between

Have you ever heard the term “liminal space”? “Liminal space” refers to a place of transition—a space between what was and what is yet to come. This can be physical, emotional, or even spiritual. The word liminal comes from the Latin limen, meaning threshold. One website describes it beautifully:

“Liminal space is the uncertain transition between where you've been and where you're going—physically, emotionally, or metaphorically. To be in a liminal space means to be on the precipice of something new but not quite there yet.”

We’ve all experienced moments like this—when the familiar is behind us, and the future isn’t yet fully visible. It’s a place filled with both opportunity and anxiety, hope and hesitation. It’s the moment when we’ve accepted that change is coming, even though it hasn’t fully arrived.

How do you feel about being in such a space? Does it excite you—or unsettle you? The unknown can be intimidating, but it can also hold incredible promise.

Right now, I find myself in a liminal space. It feels, quite honestly, unsettling. We are in the midst of discerning our next Director of Music Ministries. I’m also processing the transition of my dear friend and ministry colleague, Pastor Stephan, as he moves on to serve another congregation. These are changes that stir emotions and raise questions about the future.

And yet, I’m reminded of this truth: our Lord already knows what lies ahead. That knowledge brings peace. Because God is sovereign over our transitions, we can rest in the assurance that all will be well.

I’m grateful for our dedicated Staff Parish Relations Committee (SPRC), who are working diligently to fill the music ministry position and are prayerfully identifying next steps for our associate pastor role. They are in active conversation with our District Superintendent and Bishop, seeking the right person for this season of ministry.

As we live through this liminal time together, I encourage you to be in prayer. Pray for those in leadership who are faithfully seeking God’s guidance. Pray also for Pastor Stephan and his family as they prepare for their next chapter in ministry.

We may not yet know what’s coming, but we trust in the One who does. And in that trust, we find peace.

-Pastor Ray

Momentum: When God Starts Moving

August Sermon Series



The winds of change are blowing! But let’s be real, they always are. Life moves on whether we are ready or not. Thankfully God is constantly on the move. The difference is that where life leaves us behind, God is encouraging you and waiting for you to come along. So? Won’t you join the momentum?

Worship with us online at 9:00 and 11:00 AM here.

Join Our Sunday Morning A/V Team!

We’re still looking for a few more volunteers to help with streaming our 11:00 AM worship service. This is a vital ministry that helps us reach those who can’t be with us in person.

No prior experience is needed—we’ll provide all the training!

Concerned about the tech side?

It may look intimidating at first, but you'll only need to learn a few key steps. Our team will guide you through everything.

Worried about the time commitment?

You’ll serve during the service you're already attending—just from the balcony instead of the pews. It’s a simple and meaningful way to support our church family.

If you're comfortable with basic technology and want to serve in a behind-the-scenes but impactful way, we’d love to hear from you!

Reach out to John Moran at john.moran@gmail.com to learn more.

Get the Scoop on All Things Front Street Kids

Front Street Kids is launching a brand-new newsletter filled with updates, upcoming events, and everything happening with our children's ministry at FSUMC! The first issue will arrive in inboxes in mid-August.

Don't miss out—sign up today to have it delivered directly to you!

Acolyte Ministry Returns!

We’re excited to relaunch our Acolyte Ministry this fall! Acolytes play an important role in leading worship, and we invite all 4th and 5th graders—and anyone older who would like to serve—to consider joining this meaningful ministry.

Training will be provided, and acolytes will be scheduled to serve just once a month during the 11:00 a.m. service. This is a wonderful opportunity for young people to grow in their faith and take part in the life of the church in a hands-on way.

If you or your child is interested in serving, please contact Melissa (melissa@frontstreetumc.org) by August 10 so we can plan training days.

Join Our Children's Choir

Does your child or grandchild love to sing? As we look forward to a new school year, make plans to join the Front Street Children's Choir!

Rehearsals will take place on Sunday mornings from 9:30-10:00 a.m. in the Choir Room beginning Sunday, September 7. The choir is open to children in kindergarten through 5th grade.

Children’s Choir will be led by our Director of Music—either our newly hired permanent director, or our current interim director if the position has not yet been filled. In rehearsals, children will enjoy warm-up exercises to develop healthy vocal technique, music theory activities using the Voice for Life curriculum, and practice singing anthems for worship.

Registration opens August 1. Visit www.frontstreetumc.org/events to register your child by August 24. For more information, please contact Ms. Melissa at melissa@frontstreetumc.org.

Still Seeking Volunteers for our CMC

Following the recent expansion of our Community Medical Closet (CMC), we are grateful for the support we've already received—but we’re still in need of a couple more volunteers to complete our team.

Volunteers assist Caroline Conner with checking and cleaning incoming items, adding them to the inventory, and keeping the closet organized. This is an as-needed opportunity, and volunteers will be contacted when help is required.

If you’re interested in joining the team and making a meaningful difference in our community, please reach out to Caroline at frontstreetcmc@gmail.com.

Dear Friends,

I appreciate all the prayers, cards, food, and flowers sent to me after my fall. The unwavering support and thoughtful gestures made a difference in my recovery, reminding of God's steadfast love and care through friends.

With love and gratitude in Christ,

-Vickie Sykes

Financial Generosity Update (thru 7/24/2025)

YTD Actual Giving: $562,372.69

YTD Budgeted Giving: $859,821.83