Dear Friends of Zion,

I recently was reminded of a poem and finger play that I was taught long ago in Sunday School.  Maybe you were taught the same.  “Here is the church.  Here is the steeple.  Open the doors and see all the people.”  With two hands and the poem we were reminded of the blessings of being in the church.

In today’s society, most churches are facing fewer people in worship.  Ours is one of many in this category.  Some churches have abandoned Sunday school because there is not enough children or interest.  Less people are willing to commit and volunteer in church activities.  As a result, the Body of Christ – the Church – struggles.

But in spite of the bad news, Zion Lutheran Church and the people in it are truly blessed.  Our Little Zion Preschool continues to do well with enrollment, reaching many children and families with the love of God.  We have a Sunday School and dedicated people who love the children and know how important it is to teach them the Holy Scriptures.  We have two adult Bible Studies and a Catechism Class.  Infants and others are brought into God’s kingdom of grace through Holy Baptism.  Many are fed weekly with the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ in the Lord’s Supper for their spiritual well-being.  And those who grieve at the death of loved ones can find comfort in the victory of Jesus Christ, our crucified and risen Savior!

I am praying for the people in our church.  I am praying that all remain firm in the faith and that Jesus will be their source of joy and peace, blessing them with the promise of eternal life and His continued care.  I am praying that more of our members will be willing to help and volunteer in whatever capacity the Lord enables them.  Our church is blessed when people get involved as teachers, Altar Guild, choir, musicians, Readers, Acolytes, Ushers, Greeters, Men’s Group, Women’s Group, Youth Group, and Hospitality with the coffee hour, and more.  All of these functions require people…people like you.  It really isn’t hard to help.  God gave us a body and blessed us with some abilities to make this church fulfill its mission goals.

I thank God for the continued service of our leadership here who work hard on your behalf and for the glory and praise of our Lord.  May we also be a church that shows the importance of people who love the Lord and love one another in this place.  And it is my prayer that when our doors are open, others can see all of the people…people like you.

In Christ’s Service,

  Pastor Bob Hass