We are in the “dog days of summer.” Contrary to the connotation of discomfort and misery associated with the term, the original meaning refers to the “dog star,” Sirius being in the same region as the sun.  This sounds illuminating, steadying and even … cuddly.   Yes, we miss Garrett, Cameron, the girls and Garrett’s thought-provoking sermons, steadiness, and humor. We miss Randy and his leadership in worship and ache for the suffering he and his family are experiencing. Yet, as our former pastor, Jud Edwards was heard to remark to a visitor commenting on the absence of a certain staff member, “our bench is deep.”  We have heard challenging sermons this summer. We have continued with beautiful music leading to reverent and meaningful worship.

Meanwhile, our faithful staff, on the home front, continue to lead us as ministries and activities carry on. Our children and youth, and congregation remain faithfully engaged. Meals are being prepared and delivered to those in need. People in hospitals or having surgery are being visited, and cards, texts and phone calls are being written, sent, and made. We are indeed a church where we count on every member being a minister. 

 I will be handing the “chair of deacon’s baton” to Lee Weems at the end of 2024. Lee has been such an encourager and partner as we have reorganized and re-vitalized the deacon body after COVID. We have become more intentional about our care of those faithful members who no longer can be present with us physically. He organized the Building Bridges Ministry Team to restore relationships with these saints. I am grateful for so many deacons stepping up and building a web of care around our members. I am excited that we will be bringing new deacons into an energized deacon body in the new year. 

 “Dog days of summer”?  I think not. Instead, we have had showers, upon showers of blessings. The Vickreys and Randy can truly rest knowing that it is well with our soul.
 

Martha Morse,
Chair of Deacons