The name January comes from the mythological Roman god, Janus. The interesting thing about Janus, of course, is that he had two faces. This has always worked for people because the act of crossing into new year should also include looking back at what has been.
In this spirit we note that 2019 ended the tenure of two very special people at St. Martin’s. So, we will thank God for Barbara Hoffman-Krickbaum and Pastor Bill Gilroy! Barbara retired after 30 years as our Building Manager. Her model of faith-based stewardship to keep our facilities in pristine condition and to do so in the most economical way, has been inspirational. We will celebrate her ministry (and thank Freddie) on Saturday, January 11th at 6:00 pm in the gymnasium. This is a pot-luck so please come and bring something to share as we say “well done, good and faithful servant!”
The following week we have an opportunity to thank Pastor Bill Gilroy who came out of retirement to provide pastoral leadership while I was deployed to Africa. Bill’s kindness, wisdom, energy, and amazing pastoral presence enabled the family of faith to make great strides in 2019 and so we are grateful. One of the wonderful initiatives Bill brought to us is a congregational talent show which will take place on January 19th at 3:00 pm. At this new fellowship event (bound to become an annual tradition) we will oooh and ahhh, laugh, sing, and… thank God for Bill and Nancy! I sincerely hope that you will make it a priority to attend both gatherings as we look back and say thanks to God and to Barbara and Pastor Bill.
Looking ahead to 2020, I’m excited about our life together. Obviously, I’m happy to be home but I’m especially joyful and honored to serve our Lord at St. Martin’s. Since I’ve been away for a long time, my agenda in the next few months is to simply find ways to be with you all. I want to find out how you are, highs and lows of 2019, and where you sense that God is calling us in this new year.
Finally, a lot of folks have been asking if I plan to do a presentation on my deployment to Africa and the answer is yes. On Thursday, January 23rd from 7:00-8:30 pm I will share pictures, stories, and observations (geared towards adults). I’ll also do a kid/youth friendly version after that at FISH on Sunday, January 26th, 9:00-9:45 in the Fellowship Hall.
I remain deeply thankful for all of you and your ministry in the name of our Savior. May His abiding presence bless us all and give us strength as worship, serve, learn, and grow in 2020. In His Service, Pastor Dave
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