Thanks to Bianca and Graham for leading worship!

Dear Congregation,

Grace and peace to you!

Thanks to Bianca and Graham for leading worship so capably last Sunday after I was unexpectedly called away to deal with a family emergency in Ohio. It is a comfort to me to know that I serve an understanding and supportive congregation. I am grateful, as I marked my eight year anniversary with you on July 1st that God called me to be your pastor.

This Sunday we have the opportunity to have a little fun together and be reminded that, in spite of all the negative things going on in the world, joy remains. Many of us have been following the World Cup soccer matches in which fans have embraced and celebrated players and cultural traditions from other countries—the Viking rowing of Norway, the kilts and bagpipes of Scottish fans with their prank of placing traffic cones atop statues and draining Boston of beer. These international matches, with thousands of enthusiastic fans, have been a testament to the ability of people to applaud, not only athletic prowess, but the admirable and quirky character traits of the players (think Norway’s Erling Haaland)!

And so I hope you’ll be here this Sunday at 3 p.m. when we’ll watch the Venezuela/Spain match on the new big t.v. in Kelsey Hall, share snacks, and cheer on the team of your choice in friendly rivalry.

See you in church!

In Christ’s love,

Pastor Candy