Greetings to you in the name of Jesus Christ.

The weather this week is finally turning toward fall, and I am ready for cooler temperatures! I’m praying for an extended season of crisp mornings and warm afternoons. We usually get two perfect fall days before the cold sets in—so Lord, let it be! A few beautiful days of calm and color are blessings we could all use right now.

Thank you to everyone who attended the Saturday night concert at Saint Matthew. Lazarus, performed by the All People’s Church Choir, was beautifully done and deeply humbling in its message. It reminded us of the many families struggling right now as food stamp benefits are cut during the government shutdown. This loss of support is especially hard on children and seniors.

Now more than ever, your donations are vital to organizations like the Tarrant Area Food Bank, Eastside Ministries, and any local food pantry you choose to support. If you are able, please bring shelf-stable food to the church, and I will make sure it reaches Eastside Ministries. In the coming weeks, I will share a list of items for the Thanksgiving bags we prepare each year for Eastside.

If you know anyone in our congregation who may need assistance, please let us know—we have a Benevolence Fund set aside for just such needs. This is an urgent time, and as followers of Christ, we are called to respond. Let us be the hands and feet of Jesus to our neighbors in need. Bless you for your faithfulness and compassion.

This Sunday is a special one for Saint Matthew. We’ll observe All Saints Sunday, a day to remember those who have gone before us in faith. Please submit the names of anyone you would like memorialized during worship by emailing pastor@saintmatthewumc.com. And don’t forget—it’s also Daylight Saving Time weekend, so we get to “fall back” one hour and enjoy a little extra rest!

Finally, our hearts are with Vicky Valenzuela and her family following the tragic loss of her brother, John Moore, Jr. There will be a viewing and meal this Thursday at the funeral home in Arlington. I will contact those who can help provide food for the family. Please continue to lift Vicky, Jose, and their loved ones in prayer during this difficult time.

Blessings to all,
Mary