February 2005

2004 in Review

            We could talk about the fact that our attendance has increased and last year we were only two away from having an average of 300 people every Sunday.  We could talk about the fact that our Sunday School has grown faster than our worship attendance.  We could talk about the fact that we were able to meet an expanded budget and pay our apportionments in full.  We could talk about the fact that we are blessed to have no debt.  But all of those things are just statistics that don’t tell the real story about what is happening here. 

            The real story is changed lives, people growing spiritually, relationships renewed, and new joy.  People are becoming involved in ministries that are touching lives.  Many of you are involved in the shut-in ministry.  Sue and Bob Hillier have made sure that all those who are home bound are not only visited regularly, but wonderfully cared for.  Linda Boyette has led our Women’s Ministry and with her team has developed spectacular events.  Nearly 100 women attended the Christmas Banquet and over 50 attended the Women’s Retreat at Carlisle Inn.  The Apartment ministry began by Michelle Dallas has expanded and we are seeing over 30 children from the apartments coming to Wednesday Connection.  Bunty Kreidler and Mike Brazeal coordinate the transportation and getting the kids to class. 

            Eli and his team continue to reach young people on Saturday nights who would otherwise never be in a church or hear about what it means to have a relationship with God.  Tony Stemen, our new youth pastor, is using many innovative methods to minister to our young people and other youth outside the church.  He has begun a ministry to the CRC, and we are seeing them come as a group to church and other activities in the church. 

Joanna Chu has developed our music program to new levels.  Our choir, praise team, and special music has been the best that I have heard.  Our Christmas Eve service was stunning, and the many hours put in by all those involved was incalculable. 

            This year will see the inauguration of our Oasis House ministry where several young women will be discipled.  Christina Wolf and Becky Klontz have given a year of their lives in order to make this ministry a reality. 

            Our involvement with other area churches in joint ministry is exciting to me personally.  Baskets of blessing, back to school backpacks and supplies, and community prayer meetings have joined our hearts and hands with other Christians in the area.  This year there are several joint ministries planned that you will be hearing about. 

            The dramatic increase in ministries calls for an increase of commitment from more people in order to make it possible. 

Looking forward to what is ahead,

Rod