A Happy New Year's blessing to each of you as we begin 2008!

Looking back on our full year of activity, we clearly have much to celebrate and be thankful for. As I read the reports for our upcoming Charge Conference on January 6^th, this becomes even more clear.

 Just a few of the blessings we have shared include:

· many new members and families participating in our congregation

· new children's program leaders: Niki Vincze & Theresa Bisio

· new community children's choir beginning in January

· the new 5pm contemporary service followed be a free community meal

· the medical mission trip to Guatemala

· ongoing community outreach thru our jail ministry, food bank & special assistance

· Friendship groups that continue to foster fellowship outside our regular church activities

· the generous response to the Stewardship Campaign allowing all the Committees to
receive their full requested budgets to support their particular ministries

 As we continue to welcome new people into our church and expand our programs, we will certainly encounter some "growing pains." These additional opportunities and challenges will call all of us to look at these situations with fresh eyes, a new heart and an open mind. It is the unique way each of you contributes to our ongoing ministry and outreach that will allow our congregation to thrive and work together as a community to offer a glimpse of God's kingdom of grace and hope to the world around us.

 It is the seen and unseen work of our congregation and committee members that is so crucial in the ongoing success of our church's outreach and ministry. As we give thanks to those who have served so generously in the past, we welcome new members and additions to our committees and church community who bring fresh ideas and energy.

 I look forward to discovering with you the new ways and places God is calling us to be in service and show forth love and compassion in our world.

May this coming year bring us the wholeness and joy that God intends for us all.