Dear friends in Christ,

     It's summer.
     It's the time of year we see energy all around us.  We see the growth of the trees and plants.  We see the power of the early morning thunderstorms.  We see the electric bills go sky high from using our air conditioners!
     Energy can be seen - and felt - at Lincoln Chapel too.  We see the enthusiasm for new ministries.  Our congregation is embarking on a unique venture to offer age appropriate worship experiences for children.  Kids will learn the same Bible stories adults are hearing on a Sunday morning.  They will also be led in their own prayer time.  Kids will get to offer their own (very energetic) praise to God!  Please keep this new ministry in your prayers.  And be sure to share ideas and comments with me and the other Children's Worship leaders.
     This is just one way that Lincoln Chapel is building a bridge into our future.  As I embark on my second year as your pastor, I want to tell you that our energy won't be spent on changing the way we do things, but strengthening what we do well.
     And we do many things very, very well.  Let's capitalize on them.  If our strength is friendliness, let's build ministry around it.  If our strength is having an abundance of children and youth, let's gear ministry toward them.  If our strength is in our spiritual growth, let's grow together.
     Keep our congregation in prayer as we seek to serve God with the unique abilities He's given us.
     It's going to be a wonderful year.  Let's continue to work together as we share God's love in the way only Lincoln Chapel can.
     Marcia and I wish you a wonderful summer,

Pastor Jon