Dear Peace Lutheran Church Friends and Family,
After spending some vacation time up in Northern Minnesota a few weeks ago, it is so sad to watch the wildfires sweep through the area that I just traveled through. I’m certainly grateful that no fatalities have been confirmed so far, and I also realize that forest fires like this one are a natural part of creation’s life cycle. (My understanding is that this fire was started by lightning strikes, with dry conditions and high winds contributing to their rapid spread.) But it’s still heartbreaking to watch these fires rage through the wilderness – my understanding is that they will probably continue to burn until the snow falls. Please keep this situation in your prayers, especially those who make their living in the area.
And as we continue to be mindful of those up north, down here we will continue to pray, sing, and worship as always. This week we’ll hear Jesus telling many parables, about mustard, yeast, hidden pearls, and buried treasure. We’ll also hear an update from the Church Council about the final details of our transition from this “interim” period to a more “settled” period in the days to come. Please continue to pray for our congregation’s ongoing ministry and pray especially for Pastor Anne Schaefer as she prepares to leave her current call and eventually join the ministry of Peace Lutheran in September. On that note, Pastor Anne has written to the congregation that I wanted to pass along to you. The letter can be found here.
God’s Peace,
Pastor Jeff Engholm