Pastoral letter, from Garrett

This Thursday, Lifetimers welcomes  Dr. Tam Cummings. Her professional gerontology practice in the Texas Hill Country is recognized as one of the leading educators of dementia caregivers and program design for dementia care in Texas and nationally. 

The Church Council will meet on Tuesday night to review a draft of the 2025 budget. Although our healthcare expenses are going up significantly, we are not expecting significant changes to the budget for 2025. Since June, the finance committee has been working with our committees and ministry teams to prepare this budget. 

Don’t miss the last “Gospel According to Gamache” this Wednesday night at Serendipity. We’ll get started with some appetizers and conversation at 5:30 p.m. This theology through the lens of a popular series of mystery novels has been fun. Mike has one more for us. 

On October 23 and 30, I will lead a short series on artificial intelligence at our Wednesday night Serendipity. Engage in one of the critical theological discussions of our time. AI involves several varying elements. Machine learning, artificially grown organs, large language models like ChatGPT, and implanted devices like Nuerolink redefine humanity significantly. As humanity (or at least the human experience) changes, it’s a good time to reflect upon what makes us human.

Next Tuesday (October 22), Pastors for Texas Children will be hosting a Celebration of Public Schools luncheon in Maresh Hall from 11:45-1:00 p.m. You’re invited to this hour of support, affirmation, and advocacy for our neighborhood public schools. PTC will be giving an award to San Antonio Representative Steve Allison. Please RSVP to the lunch.

This week, the Texas Baptist Women in Ministry conference is in San Antonio at Antioch Baptist Church. The EmpowHER Conference is an ideal place for women in ministry and those who support them to find affirmation, connection, and advocacy.  For more information, check out this link.

Grace & peace,

Garrett Vickrey