Pastor Frank graciously offered me the opportunity to tell you a little about myself. My first thought is that while he loves to run, I prefer to  walk—preferably outdoors, when it is cool, the sun is coming up, the woods are close around me, and I can enjoy the presence of Our Lord and the beauty of creation. This is one of my ways to live in gratitude and remember God’s grace.

Another way I have grown spiritually is by working alongside others in our church community. The staff and lay ministry volunteers of Holy Trinity have welcomed me with great warmth and I have known the energy and creativity of the Holy Spirit among them these last few weeks. We are truly blessed to have such a dedicated group of servants at HTLC!

A third way I have experienced the nearness and power of God is through years of involvement with many varieties of Small Groups. Small Groups are relational, and I believe we grow as we share our joys, fears, sorrows, and shortcomings in trusted relationships with other people who gather to pray, study scripture, and try to live out our faith in our challenging daily lives. Jesus ministers to us in life-giving ways when we are gathered in His name. Please notice the pages in this newsletter highlighting many of the groups at HTLC, sign up to take part, and help us welcome others into new groups in the coming months.

I have so much enjoyed visiting and praying with many of you. Especially, I am honored to pray for Pastor Janet and for her timely return to ministering to all of you. Thank you for greeting my wonderful husband Keith and for listening to me tell of my sons, our crazy black lab, my chickens who lay green eggs, and our vacation camping and hiking in the state of Washington.

May you all find ways to connect into this vibrant part of the Body of Christ in the months ahead. May you be welcomed. May you know the healing presence of our living Lord. Thank you for this opportunity to minister among you.

Grace and peace in Christ,

Pastor Christine