Pastoral note, from Garrett

Notre pique-nique annuel de l’église, dimanche soir, a été un merveilleux moment de partage et de convivialité. C’était une célébration de la communauté dans le style de la ville des lumières. 

If you understood any of that, you really enjoyed the church picnic last night. It was a celebration of community in the style of the city of lights. Lois Gagne was our lead organizer for the picnic again this year. She brought French style and elegance to the evening. It was an incredible evening of food, art, conversation, games, and music. There are a few pictures from the evening below. 

Did you see the email from me last week about the upcoming capital campaign? I forgot to mention in the message that it was actually a video message. You can click on the Planted Together image below to view the video.

This Sunday, October 12, we’re trying something new.

We’re inviting our entire church to take a shared step of faith together. We’re calling it “Try the Tithe Sunday.” On that day, we’re asking each of us to give 10% of one week’s income—not as a burden, but as a bold act of trust.

Tithing is one way we learn to define the boundaries of enoughness—to say, “What I have is enough, and what I give is enough.” Stewardship isn’t just about budgets; it’s about shaping our hearts and habits around what truly matters. October 12 is an invitation to take one more step in that direction.

And it’s not just about challenge—it’s about joy. During worship, we’ll celebrate with a “noisy offering.” Bring your spare change (I’ll bring some extra to share!). Our children will collect the offering in metal tins that cling and clank with the sound of generosity. Our offering time, usually quiet and reflective, will take on more of a fiesta feel—a joyful expression of gratitude for all God has given.

Grace and peace, 

Garrett Vickrey