Dear PHLC Family,

As I begin my time as Council President, I want to first thank Tyler Quinn for his outstanding leadership this past year. Tyler brought steady guidance, deep care, and a clear voice to our congregation, and I am grateful for the time and energy he gave so generously. He helped us grow into a stronger, more grounded community—and I hope to build on that good work.

Though I’ve only officially held the role for a few weeks, my understanding of PHLC has already deepened. In preparing for the transition and stepping into the day-to-day responsibilities, I’ve come to see just how much this congregation gives of itself—far beyond what our membership size might suggest. We are a small church, but we live our values in visible, tangible ways—especially our commitment to being a welcoming and open-hearted community in a time when such openness is increasingly rare.

Last year during our Lenten Bible Study, we wrestled with Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s question: “Who is Christ for you today?” That question has stayed with me. And in these past few weeks, I’ve seen so many answers to it in real time. In the way we care for each other, respond to need, and show up for the quiet, behind-the-scenes work of ministry—from building upkeep to phone calls to prayer—I see the love of Christ lived out in service. This church embodies that answer through action.

In reviewing our current constitution as part of our governance updates, I was struck by how our congregation lives out some of the deeper missional commitments that distinguish us from many others in our area. We are called to be rooted in the Word of God for proclamation and service, to advocate for justice and dignity for all people, to equip the baptized for ministry, and to embrace diversity with welcome and grace. These aren’t just words on paper—they’re reflected in the everyday life of PHLC. I see it in how we serve the poor, care for our neighbors, steward our building and resources, and encourage one another to grow in faith and purpose. It’s inspiring, and it reminds me why this work matters.

As your Council President this year, I hope to strengthen how we communicate as a congregation, update our constitution and bylaws to reflect who we are today, and lay the groundwork for sustainable succession planning across all areas of church leadership. These are not flashy goals—but they are foundational ones. They will help us continue to be a place where all are welcomed, supported, and sent out with strength.

It’s a privilege to serve you, and I look forward to the year ahead.

With gratitude,

Fred Geiger

Council President, PHLC