FEBRUARY 2025
BEAC N WE LEAD PEOPLE INTO LIFE-GIVING RELATIONSHIPS WITH CHRIST AND EACH OTHER.
UPCOMING SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2 Lord’s Supper Observed; Quarterly Business Meeting 11:30 am, Sanctuary MONDAY, FEBRUARY 17 Office closed for President’s Day MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24 Friendship Club 11:30a - 1p, Fellowship Hall
SAVE THE DATE Mission JC 2025 will be on Sunday, October 19, rather than the last Sunday of April. The date change better accommodates the needs of the local community and organizations we serve.
Dear
Church,
Twenty-five years. It’s hard to believe that a quarter of a century has passed since I began serving as a pastor at First Baptist. In January 2000, I was called as the Associate Pastor of Youth and other things (recreation, children, and finally, missions for most of those 23 years.) In February 2023, I was called as the Lead Pastor of this congregation. Reflecting on this milestone, my heart overflows with gratitude for the journey we have shared together thus far. Before I express my thanks, let me take a moment to describe something central to my life and ministry and the mission of this congregation: life-giving relationships. A life-giving relationship is one where love, grace, and encouragement are abundant, whether a relationship with God or others. These relationships breathe hope and purpose into our lives, lifting us when we are weary and celebrating with us when we rejoice. They are relationships that remind us we are never alone and that are lives are bound to one another.
As I reflect on these past 25 years, I am profoundly grateful for the lifegiving relationships we have built together. Your support, generosity, and love have been a constant source of encouragement to me. Whether through a kind word, a shared memory, a tear of sadness or a moment of laughter, you have blessed my life in ways beyond measure. You have taught me about perseverance, humility, and the beauty of community. You have reminded me, time and again, of the strength that comes from walking this journey together. Thank you for embracing me not only as your pastor but also as a fellow traveler on the journey. As I look to the future, my hope remains steadfast that we will continue to lead people into lifegiving relationships with Christ and each other. Let us lean into the mission God has given us, trusting the best is yet to come. May we be a church where people encounter the transformative love of Jesus and experience the joy of being part of a community that truly cares.
Pastor Melissa