Bless This meal

First Church Family:
     I pray that you are doing well and staying warm after a few cold, wet days. It’s a perfect occasion for a hot bowl of homemade soup, don’t you think?
     We have a big weekend ahead of us at First Church, as we feed 150 deserving, impoverished families through our Bless this Meal Thanksgiving project. Thank you for your support of that ministry. Through it we are making a difference in our community, sharing the love of Jesus.
     We could use some additional volunteers on Thursday at 4:00pm to unload trailers of food, and on Saturday morning (either 8:30am to 10:30am or 10:30am to 12:30pm) to pack food boxes and serve those guests who will be with us. Call the church office if you are able to help.
     Some weeks ago, our director of music, Jamie Jones, shared with our leadership that she intended to retire at the end of this year. Jamie has served us incredibly well over the past seven years. She has directed both our Chancel and Handbell choirs, and worked to lead our C.A.S.T. children’s program. Too, she has played keyboard in our modern service.
     The mark Jamie has made on the whole of our church’s ministry in indelible. Our many thanks go to her, along with well wishes for her upcoming retirement.
     Over the coming weeks, please take the opportunity to wish her the best in the future. Jamie’s last Sunday will be the Sunday before Christmas, December 18. Our Staff Parish Relations Committee will make an announcement on her replacement shortly.
     It’s hard for me to believe that we are moving into the holiday season. I pray that we take time to slow down and consider the blessings God constantly bestows.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Pastor Dave