Dear Friends in Christ,
Thank you for the opportunity to serve God through leadership on our Synodical Board. I remain a bit in awe to be President. The beauty of our election is that no one serves alone. The newly elected board is an awesome collection of talented, spirit-filled women willing to share their gifts in service to others.
During the Annual Business meeting, I had an opportunity to share my love for vintage jewelry. I began wearing my mother’s clip-on earrings after she passed away. Wearing her earrings kept me connected to my past. History is so important. Institutional history is the foundation of who we are as an organization, and explains how we got here. Your WELCA units are rich in history. Each activity has value! We often say there is no such thing as “just a mom”. Well there is no such thing as “just a quilt” or “just a bible study” or “just a fellowship”. Every gathering of women great or small is important and valued. However, history alone should not define our future.
In today’s world, we can no longer afford to be “our mama’s WELCA”. It is time for us to seek relevance in today’s world. In addition, YOU get to choose. How do you want to respond to God’s gracious gift of love? What will be your response to Christ’s sacrifice for you? Small changes make huge differences.
Can we collectively and individually make one small change? The creation of just one more quilt brings warmth to the person who receives it. Twenty more dollars brings support to missions around the world. One new bible study can bring a heart to Christ. As we begin to support Radical Hospitality we have the opportunity to serve in a unique and meaningful way! Our future is definitely bright and filled with opportunity.
While I love my rich and traditional history both in my family and in my church - I feel energized to move into the future. I ask to you to wonder. Wonder about all the ways we can serve together.
I am looking forward to the time we will spend together!
Lisa G. Lopez
