A Message From Our Pastor

Dear sisters and brothers in Christ,

The first Sunday snow of the winter last weekend proved to be a challenge for some, and a breeze for others. Nine of us braved the elements for 8:15 a.m. worship, as we gathered in the chancel for a “spoken” service. But by 10:30 a.m., nearly 100 of us were “rollicking” for God with the members of the Sonshine and Joyful Noise Children’s Choirs! Special thanks to the children, their parents, and the choir directors Elizabeth Beal and Celeste Hoerner for refusing to allow a little snow to keep us from worshiping God!!

This weekend, snow or no snow, our lessons remind us that God’s love calls and gathers us together in the Lord’s mission. During the 10:30 a.m. worship, we will celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Baptism for two new disciples of Christ.

And, as of Saturday, January 27 the 2006 Annual Report Booklets are available to be picked up in the narthex (one per household, please). I invite you to read through the reports in preparation for our annual congregation meeting . . . which is Sunday, February 4, 11:45 a.m. (the Annual Congregation Meeting, that is). Mark your calendars, plan which food dish you plan to bring to share (fried chicken, drinks and place settings provided), and keep our community of faith in your prayers as we strive to discern God’s will for our congregation this year and in the years to come. On that day, we will also join forces with others throughout the United States, as we participate in the Annual Souper Bowl – please bring at least one can of hearty soup to the annual meeting to combat hunger. Our donations will be given to the New Hope Food Pantry.

LOOKING AHEAD . . . .

We still need volunteers to serve as Lenten Soup Chefs – help prepare one or more soup meals for our Wednesday mid-week Lenten services. Use the bulletin insert this weekend to sign up, or contact the church office.

“Go Red” Healthy Heart Women’s Valentines Tea – Saturday, February 10, 3:00 p.m. A representative from the American Heart Association will be the guest speaker. Door prizes will be awarded. This event is free, open to the public, and is sponsored by our Health Ministries Team. Please RSVP to Rachel Spry (ras@oursaviordayton.org) by February 6.

Valentines Brunch – Sunday, February 11, 11:30 a.m., in the church fellowship hall. Sponsored by the Youth Group, this event is a fundraiser to support this year’s Youth Mission Event. Plan to stop by for great food and fellowship!

Let’s gather together this weekend in worship to celebrate the wonders of our God!

In Christ,

Gary