|
Hello St. John’s Family,
One of the most fulfilling aspects of serving God as a pastor is the opportunity to see others give of themselves in service to God. When others who have experienced God’s goodness and grace respond to God’s calling by offering their talents and abilities to serve God, a powerful witness is revealed: God is honored and blessed through the act of serving and blessing others. This past Sunday, our St. John’s family was truly blessed by powerful and uplifting musical offerings in our Music Sunday worship services. Which isn’t a surprise – we’re blessed on a weekly basis by the power and beauty of our Bell Choirs, Vocal Choirs, Praise Band, and special music offerings. Sometimes, though, I think we can lose sight of the ongoing commitment given to our music ministries: the many hours of rehearsals; the early arrivals for setup; the commitment to serve in multiple services on Sundays and holidays. All these are offerings given to God’s glory, and they culminate in powerful moments like last Sunday. Thank you to all who respond to God’s calling by investing their gifts and talents in serving God through the Music Ministries at St. John’s, and to Roy Nelson, Brian Barber, and Alissa Nelson for your excellent leadership! God is honored, and we are strengthened and uplifted through your faithful service!
St. John’s has been blessed through the faithful service of so many people, both in our congregation and on our staff. Someone who has been an incredible blessing to me is Jan Steinmetz, our Office Clerical Coordinator. Jan arrived at St. John’s just as I did in the summer of 2020, and has handled pandemic challenges, constant changes in responsibilities – anything and everything that has come her way – with excellence and grace. Jan’s listening ear and kind words have uplifted many who have called or stopped by the office, and have been a great blessing to our staff. I want to thank Jan for her deep caring, kind heart, and excellent service that she brought to her responsibilities each and every day.
As many of us experience, family needs and responsibilities change, and Jan has resigned from her position at St. John’s. In a testament to Jan’s commitment and genuine care for St. John’s, she has offered to work past her intended “last day” on an adjusted schedule when a promising candidate for the position did not work out. Please note that, beginning the week of June 18, the office will be staffed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9am-1pm. While some staff will be present on Mondays and Fridays, the office phone and desk will not be occupied. Please note this new schedule and plan accordingly if office assistance is needed. Also know our SPRC Committee is working diligently to fill this important position. If you or someone you know is interested in this position, please contact Ron Oedemann, SPRC Chairperson, or me.
This Sunday, we’ll again have the opportunity to honor God – our heavenly Father – through meaningful worship, uplifting song, restoring prayer, and grateful praise. We’ll thank God for our earthly fathers, reflect on Matthew 5:13-14, and then consider “WWGGG.” Not sure what that is… well, you’ll have to wait until Pastor Ruth’s message on Sunday to find out!
I will be away Sunday, enjoying a rare opportunity to worship with my Dad in the congregation I grew up in. Perhaps consider inviting your Dad (or son!) to worship with you on Sunday… it’s a great way to spend the morning together. I look forward to seeing you next week – and hearing your reflections on WWGGG!
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Brad
| 
