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I am writing this week’s column on Wednesday as tomorrow Ruth and I, along with our daughter Molly, leave for vacation. We will return next Wednesday, June 24th. We are excited to have our first family vacation in several years. Our daughter Tessa and her husband Everett are joining us for the weekend. Our plans are quite simple - time on the beach and lots of biking. We are looking forward to a relaxing time away.

Ruth was back at the foot doctor this week as she cannot get out of the boot as she had hoped. He prescribed some anti-inflammatory medicine that we hope will help. Everything is healing fine, according to the doctor, but just slower than we expected. Needless to say, she has become increasingly frustrated with the need for the boot to be able to function. Should make for an interesting week at the shore.

This week I was able to attend the Solanco Neighborhood Ministries volunteer appreciation luncheon on Wednesday. In addition to serving as a pastoral representative on the board, I volunteer by providing pastor’s hours on the fourth Wednesday of every month. My hours next week are being graciously covered by Pastor John Hartman. It was good to see the many volunteers that help Solanco Neighborhood Ministries make such an impact in our beloved southern Lancaster County.

Tomorrow is a big day for fathers and daughters for the event at Black Rock Retreat. This is a great way for dads and daughters to connect. Coming up on Sunday, June 28th is our baptism service. So excited as we will be baptizing no less than three believers and the service will be in the sanctuary at the end of the 10:30 am worship service.

Coming in July, Janae and I are having “Pastor for a Day.” This opportunity is for all 3rd – 12th (completed) Roots Kids who want to be pastor for a day. It will be from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm on the Mondays in July. Participants will spend the day with me and learn what a pastor does, talk with the staff, assist in sermon preparation and then visit some of our homebound members. In addition, participants will be treated to lunch. There will be opportunity for two individuals to participate each week on Mondays. Signup in the Gathering Area as I am excited to spend some time with our Little Roots kids as they learn what a pastor does in our first Pastor for a Day ministry.

Last Friday, Ruth and I along with about 30 others attended the ANE District gathering for pastors and spouses at the Ephrata Church of the Brethren. The food was excellent and was good to be with other Brethren pastors and their spouses. 

This Sunday we welcome back Pastor Jim Rhen as he will be sharing a Father’s Day message. Ruth and I will be worshiping with our girls somewhere near the ocean but hope to watch the livestream at some point. In addition to celebrating our fathers on Sunday, we will commission Phil and Sheri Johnson as our Annual Conference delegates at the 8:15 am service and our Jr. High work camp group at our 10:30 am service. I am excited to be able to spend Father’s Day with my daughters for the first time in years.

Since I will be on vacation for much of next week, we will put the Friday column on vacation next week as well. It will return in early July. I am planning though to attend the memorial service for Pastor Earl Ziegler next Friday. The Lord has two great Sundays coming up for us with Father’s Day with Pastor Jim Rhen and then baptism Sunday June 28th. What a joy it is to be a part of church family where Jesus is continually changing lives. 

Have a great week…I know I will. But more importantly have a great Sunday. Celebrate in worship and give thanks to the Lord for he is good, his love endures forever! (Ps. 136:1). To all our fathers, Ruth and I wish you a blessed Father’s Day! And remember…it is Friday, but Sunday’s coming!