June

Dear Sisters and Brothers:

We are about to enter the gift of summer. The pace of life changes in many ways. Children are off from school. Most families have time for some vacation and sharing together. The days are gorgeous for being outside gardening, swimming, walking or just being.

Summer is a time when we continue our faith journey and presents some special opportunities.

If you are traveling this summer, stop and visit a different congregation. Meet some brothers and sisters in Christ and see how other members of God’s family practice their faith. Bring home your experiences and share them with us here. Help us to grow as a congregation.

The West Bend clergy association is encouraging members from all our West Bend congregations to do some reading concerning important social concerns this summer. In this newsletter you will find a list of those books. In the fall there will be opportunities to join others who read on these issues discuss the issues together. It is a way for all of us as brothers and sisters in Christ to share. Such an opportunity can draw us together across traditions. It can also call us all to Christian action in a world that desperately needs it.

Look for the signs of God’s presence in the world around. Really embrace the gift of God we find in nature. Find a whole new list of things to give thanks for each day. Hiking, walking, work in our yards and gardens can help strengthen the gift of our bodies as well.

Find time to help another person. Mow a neighbor’s yard. Send a card to someone elderly or struggling with illness or grief. Join a community program and build a better environment for everyone. And do it all in the name of our Lord.

Every moment of life offers us new possibilities for walking with Christ and with each other. Enjoy your summer journey with our Lord and with each other. Let it renew you in faith and life.

Wish You All A Blessed Summer,

Pastors Cris and Dave