Come Together

September marks a turning point for many of us in our schedules and routines. This turning point is even more pronounced for my family this year than ever before. Our older daughter, Kristina, just began her junior year at St. Olaf College and our younger daughter, Sigrid, just began her first year at Gustavus Adolphus

College. Yes, Pastor Katie and I are "empty nesters!" We are trying now to understand the impact this will have on our lives. There will certainly be a little anxiety as both our daughters are living away from home. The good thing is that both girls are excited for this new stage in their lives and, as much as they can be, we feel they are well prepared.

Turning the calendar to September means that the routines and schedules here at church change as well. The weekend after Labor Day we change to our fall worship schedule. We call the weekend of September 10- 11 "Rally Weekend." The phrase comes from the understanding that after a summer of various activities and travels, this is the weekend we all "rally" or reunite at church for a festive and joyful homecoming. I hope you will see this weekend as an opportunity for just that kind of experience. Not only have our summer schedules and travels dispersed us, but so have two years of a global pandemic. The meaningfulness of gathering in community with others, of centering our week and our lives on the good news of God's unfailing love and grace is beyond measure. The power of knowing that together, we can make a difference in one another's lives and in the world is why I invite you to make room in your September schedule for weekly worship and faith education. Our education hour for all ages, Sunday School and Adult Forum, resumes September 11.

I am very excited about all the ministries that will begin again this fall, as well as the ongoing ministries of our congregation that never take a break! We are blessed to be part of a vibrant, active Christian community, and I hope you will become involved in some aspect of ministry in our congregation, as well as experiencing the renewal of regular worship. As you adjust your schedules this fall, make sure you include taking part in the life and ministry of Midvale Community Lutheran Church! You are welcome here and we are more of who God hopes us to be with you and your gifts!