November is the month we generally put aside to give thanks. Later this month we will be celebrating a national day of Thanksgiving. Living in a nation like ours, even with its challenges and struggles, it is important to recognize how blessed we are!
It certainly should be a hallmark of Christianity: gratitude, giving thanks, showing appreciation for all that we have and the wonderful world God gave us. Gratitude journals and lists are all the rage in popular culture, but how often do we plan expressing gratitude or thankfulness as an activity of the church? We just came out of a month here at Mount Olive where many expressed their appreciation for the ministry of Pastor Bill and myself. We so much appreciate your generosity and gratitude through conversation, cards and gifts. We thank you!
But, I would also like to thank the rest of our staff here at Mount Olive. We may be smaller than desired on the church side, but I challenge you to find a group that works harder. They work with Jesus in their hearts: Todd et al work hard at keeping our building clean and in working order; Gwen plays so beautifully on her instruments, and diligently keeps our worship team supplied and on task; Brenda does a much needed job of reminding me of details, and taking as much as she can off my plate; Monica works to count and justify all our numbers and keep our bills up to date; Jerusha puts in many hours to prepare her lessons and activities for our Sunday School families, VBS and visioning for the future of children’s and family ministry, and now Allyson is on board to help administrate day-to-day operations; Tana & Cari administrate our preschool and all of our teachers and staff go above and beyond to prepare their activities, and bring love and care to our preschool children each and every day; and Amy works hard at updating our forms and processes, website and social media. I love you all and I certainly COULD NOT do this without you. My heartfelt thanks to all of you.
(Newsletter article from Pastor Jon continues in our monthly newsletter:)
