Grace and Peace to you from Pastor Gary!

“The Word of God continued to spread…the Church had peace and was built up.”  These words from the Book of Acts are a good description of our life and ministry during the summer months. Thirty-one different persons participated in the 2:42 for Tuesday ministry held in our home. Several special summer events – a beach outing to Jekyll Island, a congregational meal and meeting pertaining to our building plans, a tubing trip to Florida, and a delightful picnic, pot-luck, and pool party – were well supported and enjoyed by all. We welcomed home several servicemen – Guy Davis, Ryker Hall, Matt Hardy, and Tim Judge – and welcomed into our church family Keaton Chase Hall who was born on July 28. We offered our grateful prayers to God for Andy Shaul who entered the Kingdom of heaven on June 8 and for Julie and Brian Skyrms who entered the covenant of Christian marriage on June 14. We were blessed with worship visitors even as we bid farewell to friends who have accepted new jobs in new places.  

“Train yourself in godliness. While physical training is of some value, godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for the present life and the life to come…Put these things into practice, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress.” Just as the Apostle Paul wrote these wise words of encouragement long ago to Timothy, so I lift them up to each one of you as we enter a new season at Spirit of Peace! We witnessed during the recent Olympics the positive impact of physical training for the athletes of our nation and the world. Their achievements were truly inspirational and memorable. Now imagine how your life and this church can bring inspiration and encouragement to people as we devote ourselves to the ways of the Lord!  

As you read this newsletter, please note the opportunities this month for “training yourself in godliness” – Sunday worship & Sunday School, giving to the building fund and the needs of our congregation’s ministry and community, service to God, and Youth Fellowship. My hope and prayer is that you will “devote yourself to own spiritual growth, for the growth of Spirit of Peace, and for the glory of God!  

In Christ's love,
Pastor Gary