The Messenger - July 16, 2008

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                                "Beginning Well"

     "In all things, give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
(Philippians 4:17)

During the last few weeks, I have used "The Messenger" to thank those staff and program volunteers who will soon be getting a well-deserved break. But there are other staff and volunteers whose efforts cannot cease in the summer months. So, as many of us begin a new season that includes more time for renewal, we need to recognize those whose service just keeps on going throughout the year.

Foremost of these, of course, is our Office Manager, Shirley Snow, who has spent more than 30 years on our Staff. In a world of constant change, this level of dedication is extremely rare, and it has brought so many blessings to our church. Another "good and faithful servant" is Martha Bodlovich, who came in to cut checks within just a few days of her release from the hospital (for knee surgery). Not only that, Martha warned us several weeks ahead so that each of us could be sure our bills got paid on time. What a thoughtful move!

Each of these dedicated staff members are suported by a host of volunteers. Martha is supported by our faithful money counters (Verabelle Baxter and Dariel Johnson) and our Trustees (Eric Langdon, Jim Waters, Dariel Johnson, and Rupert Loyd); while Shirley is supported by a whole host of newsletter volunteers (Don Hurley, Georgianna Buzzini, Dottie Park, Verabelle Baxter, Bob Ramsay, Martha Klopp, Nell Hulsey, Betty Hughes, Jessie Varalyay, and Bill Cameron.) Some of these folks have served for decades, and Bill Cameron usually brings sweet treats to share.

In addition to these helpers, most of our Bible Study Leaders keep on serving in the summer months, and so does our weekly Prayer Group. Our Deacons still offer receptions after each memorial service that is scheduled sy the church, they send cards and calls to shut-ins, and they only take one month off from "Forever Young," the monthly luncheon taht we provide for seniors in the church.

Finally, we can't forget our "KEEEs": Keith Headley, Eric Langdon, Erik Larson, and Eric Beck, who donate countless hours each week throughout the year. Keith Headley installs new messages on the electronic sign, and, while he's here, wife Sue (our Children's Ministrie's Director) usually several other tasks for him to do. Eric Langdon is "Mr. Fix it," meeting a whole variety of contractors who tend our endless plumbing and electrical needs. Eric Larson Larson created our web site just a few years ago, and he's always adding to it in new a thoughtful ways. Have you seen the latest pictures there? Finally, Eric Beck sends this weekly eletter to anyone who requests it, and he does a terrific job.

Having started to list names of faithful summer workers, I'm beginning to think of many, many more (especially those who help each week with Meals on Wheels). But I think you get the point. Some of us get nice breaks in the summer months. Other of us do not. So, we need to give thanks for those whose faithful service undergirds this church all year through.

Have a great week!

Neal

• July 26 - Crew 731 returns from Long Term Trip
• July 29 - VBS training begins
• Aug 4-8 - VBS
• Aug 8 - Youth Lock In
• Aug 10 - VBS Sunday at Worship  AND the Outriggers Pancake Breakfast