A Note from Pastor Madeline

My two favorite quotes about change:

Two basic rules of life are: 1) Change is inevitable. 2) Everybody resists change.
- W. Edwards Deming

When you're finished changing, you're finished.
- Benjamin Franklin

Most of us love stability and routines. We like to know what to expect from day to day. It just seems easier that way, doesn't it? Well, as Jesus teaches us, the easy way is not always the right way. He reminds in the Gospel of Matthew, "Enter through the narrow gate. The wide gate and easy road lead to destruction, but the narrow gate and hard road lead to life." (Matthew 7:13-14). I also read an anonymous quote once that went something like this... "A comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing grows there."

Okay, I think you have figured out that I am setting you up for something - something to do with change! So, I will just put it out there. After about a year and a half of amazing ministry work and great growth in the area of children and families, Ms. Brandi will be leaving us to spend more time with her family. The good news is that she will not be leaving right away. She will be in her position through November 1st. 

Yes, I was very sad when Ms Brandi spoke with me about this news AND I am also very grateful that God brought her to us for the time she has served here at our church. Her dedication, ability to build relationships and incredible work ethic have been such a blessing and the reason our children's program has grown and is blossoming! Ms. Brandi will be greatly missed but we hope to see her in church with her family occasionally (at least until her husband is re-assigned - our military families are quite used to change!). 

So, we are looking to hire a new Part-time Director of Family Ministries. We will be hiring as soon as possible so this person can spend some time training with Ms. Brandi. You will find the job posting included in this newsletter. If it is something that interests you, we would love to hear from you. Or, maybe you know someone you think would be a good fit. If so, please pass the posting on to them. We are also looking to hire a Part-time Nursery attendant as we gear up for our busy season. You will find that information in this newsletter also. 

One other change (a good one) is also happening. Diana Silva, who has worked for us as a nursery attendant for about a year now, has been promoted to Youth Leader! Beginning this Sunday, she will meet separately with the middle school and high school youth during the 11am service. They will have their own fun activities and discussion time. We hope your youth will take part and spread the word. Ms. Diana is also planning her first Teen Pop-up Party on Sunday, November 1st, following the 11am service. The theme will be Día de los Muertos! The activities will be hilarious and the food will be yummy! Stay tuned for more information!

Please be sure to tell Ms. Brandi how much you appreciate her and do all you are able to support Ms. Diana in her new role! In addition, please think about volunteering in these ministries. We have many events and activities coming up soon and volunteers are needed! We are fully committed to growing our youth and children's programs and we need your help to make it happen. 

See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. (Isaiah 43:19)

Grace and Peace

-Pastor Madeline