It seems to me that it’s time to pat ourselves on the back! The Great Ice Cream Social was a grand success and it happened when we all worked together to make it possible! The markers of our success include: 1) the free and radical love of God being expressed to our neighbors 2) some 80-100 people attended 3) volunteers joyfully engaged in preparing, serving, contributing, engaging, and enjoying 4) smiles and warm conversation all around.
I could name so many who helped make the event possible, but I’d be sure to miss someone. The bottom line is YOU! Once again, St. John’s said to whomever was listening: “No matter who you are, you are welcome here!” A big “thank you” to all of you. Also, we are so grateful to the Miami County Foundation for a grant to help us serve our neighbors.
Another word of thanks goes to all who came together to fill in the blanks left when neither Mary Ann nor I could be in worship last Sunday. COVID was a surprise to us both when Mary Ann tested positive. A special thanks goes to Earl Reives who filled the pulpit with only a day to prepare! Thanks, too, to Paul Schaffner who stepped into his role as Vice President of the Council and guided us through the past few days.
I’m just grateful to be a part of a Beloved Community like St. John’s. We’ve had some challenges lately, but when it is all said and done, I believe we will look back and see how we did our best to care for one another, listen to each other, and act with compassion. God Bless you all.
Pastor Don Crist
