From the Congregation Chairman

Well, October is already upon us. The harvest is started in earnest & the cold weather is on its way. We have many things to reflect upon at the start of the final quarter of 2018. We've got a new Pastor. (Well, mildly used, anyway!) A truly dedicated shepherd and teacher who has already made himself part of Immanuel, and not just because he's the pastor, either. We have 3 young people starting Confirmation Studies with more (we hope!) to come shortly. We have done some good work for the church God has put into our care and for some of its members who were particularly in need. Though we have lost some of our brothers and sisters this past year, we are content in our knowledge that they are now with our Lord and smiling down upon us!
Don't forget to step up for the new Outreach Committee. It is part of our mission to reach out to the community and preach the gospel of Christ and His salvation.
With all that being said, we also have some big decisions coming up and a quarterly Voter's Meeting within which to discuss it all. Be prepared! Get your questions & concerns ready so that we can deal with all of it at that time. If possible, let myself or one of the other Church Council members know how we can help or what you'd like to have presented - in case you are too shy. (Ha!)
Pastor Yarrington's son Jonathan needs our prayers, as he has Stage IV Hodgkins AND Non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Pastor Yarrington himself could use a few prayers and maybe a call or card. He's lost his driver's license and is STILL trying to learn how to walk. Please continue to pray for all of those who need it, not forgetting Steve and Diane.
Don't be too busy to drop in on someone who needs some company, either! Lois, Vivian, Elsworth, Pat and Wayne could benefit greatly from a visit. Let's not leave it all up to the Elders, Dave, Patti and the Pastor. We are God's children and these are our Brothers and Sisters. If nothing else, send them a card or give them a call.
May God continue to bless all of us and protect us this autumn. Watch out for farmers. Their tractors are huge and there are idiots coming from the other direction who don't always watch for what's behind the combine! May we all remember God's generous love, grace and the many blessings He has showered upon us! Love your neighbor as yourself. Even if they are terrible drivers!
Your Brother in Christ,
Glenn