From the Congregation Chairman

Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ,
  Well, July was certainly an exciting month. We installed our new permanent pastor, and what a grand ceremony that was! Reverend Matthew Rosebrock has already started making some significant changes. Pastor has been upgrading and updating the church's bulletins, Weekly Leaf and this newsletter.  One of the benefits of having a younger fellow around is the expertise with computers, website design & social media. Perhaps this will also help with outreach efforts.
  Pastor Matt has also made it a point to get out and meet all of our shut ins. Reportedly, he is making a good impression with all of them. He has also instituted a “Meet the Pastor” program so that he can sit with each of us and get to know his flock individually. Please take advantage of this opportunity by signing up for a time on the sheet in the Fellowship Hall. It will also give you the chance to voice any concerns or changes that you might like to see instituted here at Immanuel.
  There will be a flurry of activities in August. Our Property Manager, Dave Ginger, will be setting up a day or two for painting the Fellowship Hall. During that same time, I will also ask for volunteers to help complete some projects around the church. That way, we'll be killing 2 birds with 1 stone and offering alternatives to those of us who are not such great painters (I am the WORST!). 
  Dave Harms has begun setting up a spaghetti dinner fundraiser for Steve and Diane Hawkins on August 25th. Flyers and tickets should be ready this Sunday. Spread the word & sell some tickets if you can. The purpose of the fundraiser is to obtain monies to purchase paint and windows for the Hawkins home to ready it for sale. This will ultimately allow them to move into a smaller property with little or no maintenance. Steve's Parkinson's has left him unable to do much, which is pretty hard for a guy who was always working. It has also put a lot more strain on Diane.
  Steve served this church well as an Elder when he was able. It is only proper that we respond with a little help for them during their time of need. So please help out at either the fundraiser or the work day at their home as you are able. Both, if possible! Besides, fundraisers and work parties are also great opportunities for fellowship. Sell some tickets!!
  Many of you are still completing work projects around the church from the list on the board. We appreciate all of your hard work! If you need anything, please feel free to contact myself or Dave Ginger. We'll see to it that you get what you need. And thanks to all of you who take the time to beautify God's house here at Immanuel.
  The Union Church around the corner is currently looking for a pastor and are not always able to have services. So you may be seeing some of them here at Immanuel in the next few weeks. Please make them feel welcome, as you did me so many years ago. A big smile and a little conversation goes a long way. We all worship the same great God, so let us love one another, as He commands.
  As Porky Pig says, “That's all, folks!” I hope that you are all enjoying the Lord's many blessings this beautiful summer, especially the awesome sunny weather! Glory in the Lord and praise His name!
In Christ's Service & yours,
Glenn Hofer, Chairman