Needless to say, summer is here and vacation time. Let us take our vacation, but don’t take a vacation from God and your church. People need the Lord whether vacationing or working. I rejoice to have another year to work and serve. While, I can see 2012 as a target for retirement, this is not a time to let up in our pursuit of faithful mission and ministry.

As we begin our sixth year together, we must choose to be faithful to God. This is no time to believe that what we have is good enough. We must continue to make disciples for the transformation of our world. Our leadership teams are looking for new ways to reach out to our community in mission and ministry. Our Nurture team is looking for leaders that will offer new groups for fellowship and spiritual growth. If you are interested in leading a Bible study group or a group for fellowship and encouragement, please call the church office and let us know.

Our church needs to grow in mission and ministry, but we also, need to be more accessible. Our elevator fund is at 70,000 dollars now, but we need 150,000 to begin building. Every gift to the elevator fund is very much appreciated, but please don’t take from your regular tithes and offerings to the church. Our church operating budget needs all the help you can give too. Thanks for giving to both. Our church is healthy because of your love and generosity to our church.

Now is no time for a vacation from God, but it is a good time to pray without ceasing. Soon our leadership team (Nominations) will meet to discern leaders for 2011. I hope you will volunteer to help where you can. Let us take vacations, but let us keep working to build the kingdom of God here at Neal Avenue United Methodist Church.