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On Wednesday, we had 21 members of our OAKS ministry along with some of the Kreider clan attend the Lancaster Stormers game. It was muggy and cloudy but there was no rain. The Stormers won convincingly 9-3. Our very own Kennedy Kreider sang the National Anthem for the game and was outstanding. Here are a few pictures from our Oaks event Wednesday evening.
 

We had a staff meeting on Monday this week as we continue our development time with the book, “Doing Church as a Team.” We talked about the importance of serving in our “sweet spot” as we realize how God has gifted us and then lean into the best areas of ministry for those gifts. Here is a quote from the book: “We need all of us functioning in our gifts, with respect and love for each. That’s what the local church is all about! No one is unimportant. Everyone, not just the pastor, is part of sharing Gospel. We do church as a team!” (pg. 59-60). I put a big “Amen!” next to that statement in my copy.

I was able to make some meaningful visits this week including seeing Charlie and Edna Wagner, Emma Dubble, Ken Herr, Ginny Rineer, and Bud Hart. Ken’s neck procedure on Monday went well. Please be praying for Bill Johnson as we learned this week that he had a stroke and is facing a long recovery.

Ruth was all set to have an in-office procedure done on Wednesday to help with the pain in her foot, but it was canceled for insurance reasons. The procedure is now scheduled for later this month. We are in Harrisburg to help our daughter Molly and her church with their VBS. They conclude their VBS tomorrow at noon with a picnic/carnival and Ruth and I have helped with their food concessions for years. We always enjoy being back there as I served as their pastor from 2002-2008.

Last Sunday, Janae did an excellent job with the training after our morning services. It was great to see so many volunteers who serve in our children and youth ministries coming together to learn how to better serve our greatest resource—children and youth. Thanks to Janae for the excellent training and strong biblical foundation that was shared for our Roots and Youth Ministries.

This Sunday we continue the Great Stories in Genesis series by looking at Genesis 39 and the story of Joseph and the temptation from Potiphar’s wife. In addition, we will be receiving a total of seven new members between both services. I am so glad for Richard and Karen McCarter, Debbie and Jay Myers, George and Brenda Mahaffey, and Diane McMichael as they join our church family through their confession of faith.

As I close, I am reminded of just how important every member is to the team. From the great staff God has put into place at Mechanic Grove to the countless volunteers who serve with joy, we are indeed a team. Every person is incredibly important to the fulfillment of God’s plan. As Paul said in Ephesians 2:10: "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." This passage shows that God crafted you intentionally with a specific ministry and purpose in mind. He is encouraging you to find your “sweet spot” and serve as together we “do church as a team.”

Blessings await us as we have our team meeting this Sunday and welcome new members to the team. We have much to celebrate—feel free to start praising God now. Enjoy your weekend but most of all, let’s come together this Sunday to worship our God and thank him for putting us on His team. It is Friday…but Sunday’s coming!

Pastor Kevin