Dear Members and Friends of St. Paul’s,
Every year after Easter, I begin to think about the summer and look forward to a more relaxed pace and a less chaotic schedule in both my church and personal life. And that is true in some ways. There are fewer rehearsals, Bible studies and evening meetings. But, at the same time, the summer is never as quiet as I expected it to be.
Of course, this isn’t a bad thing! It means that even in the summer months, when many of the church’s regular programs are taking a break, we’re still busy doing ministry, worshiping and learning together! There’s a lot to look forward to this summer:
Social Ministry has just concluded their diaper drive, which was a huge success! But we’re not done. Coming up this summer we will begin a collection for children’s socks and underwear. This is a new ministry that will benefit Lumberton Cares, and will run in conjunction with Vacation Bible Camp. Additionally, we will again be holding our school supply drive to benefit Oaks Integrated Care in Mt. Holly. These collections, as well as our ongoing food pantry collection for Extended Hand Ministries and our dessert donations to Mt. Nebo, help us care for the community around us. Even when we’re not able to provide a full force of volunteers, we are making a difference by providing valuable supplies to our local organizations that support those who are vulnerable and in need.
In terms of education and faith formation, our Bible studies and Sunday school programs have wrapped up for the season, but that’s just in time to start gearing up for Vacation Bible Camp. This exciting, action-packed week of learning and community-building is coming up at the end of July. It will take all kinds of volunteers to prepare our church and lead the children throughout the week.
Even though youth group is also done for the summer, we are already starting to talk about next summer’s ELCA Youth Gathering in Minneapolis. Registration opens this fall, and we want to make sure our youth are ready to start planning! The youth are so thankful for St. Paul’s continued support of their fundraising endeavors that make trips to these gatherings possible.
Our monthly fellowship after church continues, but if you’re looking for another way to join in fellowship with the St. Paul’s community, there are three different baseball teams this summer that will be hosting a Faith & Family Night. This is a great opportunity to enjoy an evening of fun and conversation with your church family.
As always, our worship continues. While there are no big festivals coming up over the summer, we will be celebrating several baptisms. We also always give thanks that Christ continues to come to us week after week, to forgive, strengthen and sustain us.
Look for more information about each of these ministries over the next few months. However you are interested in being involved this summer, I look forward to partnering with you in our mission of Celebrating God’s Love through Service!
Peace,
Rev. Jessica Hahn