June 7
Summer Plans

The summer months are officially upon us. This means not only an adjustment of weather and clothing, but of schedules and calendars. So as we make our inventory of things needed and tickets secured—“Let’s see who’s coming to Blossom, and I wonder if 15 is a high enough sunblock, and what are the weeks of VBS, and wonder what we’ll do for the 4th of July “—can I offer a few reminders and words of encouragement regarding all things Chapel and summer ministries and life?

So much happens during these months. Please visit our website, regularly and often, to be informed and updated on all the ministries and trips coming round the bend.

Children’s ministries, Camp Carl abuzz all the time, youth trips here, there and everywhere, Summer in the City … just to name a few of the many as summer comes. Would you pray for our missional expressions and special activities? As you bring your child to VBS, would you bring a friend as well? Would you lend a hand with Summer in the City or another ministry that needs your assistance?

As you come to our worship services this summer, would you invite your neighbor or a co-worker? It will be a natural way for you to share your faith and church, and it will enable us and others in the body of Christ to welcome and love on your friends in the name of Christ. You may be surprised at how much they enjoy your church and even wonder why you hadn’t invited them before.

Planning to be away? (Sue and I will probably do a week at the seashore in July as well as go and be full-time grandparents in Cincinnati while taking in a world class tennis tournament there.) As you are away from The Chapel this summer, please continue to give financial offerings (through the mail, online or when you return). Because of our many ministries during the summer, our giving must also be strong June through August. Thanks for your conscientiousness and generosity.

I heard a story of a Scottish pastor who died after many years serving in his village church. At his funeral, a man tearfully said, “Now there is no one left in our village to appreciate the triumphs of ordinary folks.“ They had lost their cheerleader. As Chapel family members, God calls us to be cheerleaders for one another. So much time is spent in criticizing and rock-throwing inside and outside of the church. Let’s resolve this summer to be encouragers, to tell someone we are proud of them or to express our thankfulness for them, even noticing the little triumphs.

Happy summer. See you on Sunday.