Vacation

I know Vermont is lovely.

As I write this, I haven’t seen it yet.

I am doing my bit in this newsletter before I leave.

I just wrote last week’s bit.

I will get up from my computer in a minute and finish my packing.

But I do want to remind you of the concert coming up on the 14th —Saturday at 6:00.

Yes, that’s still over a week away, but make your plans now to attend. Stick a reminder on the refrigerator. Use some gum to stick a note on your bedpost. Or—just keep it in mind.

We are having a great time in Vermont.

Or—at least—I’m sure we will.

(Still packing to go.)

But I do already miss you.

Stay safe till we return.

And–

GOD BLESS—-MB

Dearest St. Matthew friends and family,

What an exciting week for us! Our 8-year playground project was started and Phase 1 completed in less than 3 days. The equipment looks amazing and I cannot wait to complete Phase 2: Retaining wall with fencing and brick paver pathway.

Another bit of exciting news is that you will all be able to purchase engraved brick pavers or sections of fencing in memory of or in honor of someone.

This is, of course, just a fancy way of raising money toward the project. It is also a great way to let the world know how important that person was or is to you.

I will have pricing soon for the brick pavers and sections of fencing. I am so very grateful to all of you for your spiritual and financial support.

Phase 3 of the project includes the addition of a walking path around the property. We need to begin as soon as possible getting the fence up to keep folks safe. More to come this Sunday!

I am preaching again from Step 4. This week we will talk about “The Good Things.” Making a searching and fearless moral inventory is not only about the things we wish were different about ourselves. Making a list of the good things is also included in this step and I encourage you to begin making your list now.

My love to you all, Mary

This week we were all so excited that the playground had been constructed and we just had to go outside and “test drive” it.

Everything seemed to meet their approval. Jade and Remy really enjoyed the swings, while Alec loved the slides. They decided that the playground passed inspection for you to bring your kids and grandkids to church so they can enjoy our playground as well!

Our lesson this week was about Abraham as he journeyed to a new land. God told him not to be afraid because He would protect them on their journey.

Abraham was confused that God would be protecting all of his descendants on this journey. He asked God, “What can You possibly give me since I have no children?“

God patiently replied that Abraham should count the stars in the night sky if he thought he could. God told him that is how many descendants he would have. Abraham has questions, but he remains faithful to God.

We learned that there are always questions about God’s desires in our lives, but we also learned in this story that God always keeps His promises, even when these promises are different from anything we could have imagined. We have a lot more to learn about this journey.

Be with us Sunday as we travel further with Abraham and Sarah.

Blessings