Reflecting on last night, I want to point out something I hope is obvious but should be stated explicitly anyway: the Great Big Things™ happening in our world are within the Church’s purview.

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing all the photographs in our church library as we prepared for last Sunday’s Gratitude and Ministry Day.

On Sunday there will be snakes.

Lent always seems to arrive with a quiet insistence.

Every day, the prayer requests submitted on Sunday Connection Cards (specifically the ones with the DOK box checked) are lifted up to God with faithfulness and confidentiality.

We had a wonderful annual meeting this past Sunday. If you weren’t able to be there, the great, big, exciting, wonderful news we announced was that near the end of last year, St. Andrew’s entirely paid off our mortgage debt.

As I look outside and see the ice finally melting, I am so relieved. It has been a long, cold week, and I am looking forward to seeing everyone this Sunday.

Winter is coming. And this isn’t Game of Thrones.

January is a time for reflection and reassessing priorities for many of us. This year, I’m excited to focus on the fundamentals: reconnecting with family and friends, taking daily walks, reading more, engaging in regular prayer, practicing kindness, and volunteering.