A Word From the Pastor (July 2009)

Dear Friends in Christ,

For many of us, summer comes as a special gift from God. Summer offers the opportunity to get out-of-doors and enjoy the wonder of God's creation. Summer provides a chance to break with the routines and rituals of our daily lives and do something different. Summer inspires us to relax and reflect and gain new perspective. I hope that summer is a precious time of grace and renewal for you as you enjoy the goodness of all God's gifts.

At Fishkill United Methodist Church, we hope that you will take advantage of some special opportunities for worship, fellowship, and spiritual growth this summer. In order to encourage the worship life of God's people, Saturday evening services will be offered on July 11, 18, 25, and August 1 at 6:00 PM. If your Sunday plans are hectic, join us on Saturday evening for a casual worship time followed by fellowship and refreshments in Room T2. As some of you know, the church has been offering Third Saturday services monthly since last fall, with attendance ranging from seven to 25 worshippers. We hope these added services in the summer will support and nurture a growing spirit of prayer and worship in the congregation.

In addition, two special study opportunities will be available this summer. A study of the Book of Proverbs will be offered on Sunday mornings at 11:15 AM in Room T2, led by the pastor. The class will meet July 5, 12, 19, 26, and August 2, from 11:15 AM - 12:30 PM. This class is open to teenagers and adults.

This Proverbs course will also be offered on Friday mornings from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM for those who prefer a weekday format with time for fellowship and refreshments. The Friday morning class will meet July 3, July 10, July 17, and July 31. (We will take July 24th off.) Again, all youth and adults are welcome.

Another worthy summertime offering is the Cooperative School of Christian Mission, which meets July 23-25 at Western Connecticut University in Danbury, CT. This year's study options include: "Food and Faith," "Giving Your Heart Away: Native American Survival," and "Sudan." Registration information is available on the bulletin board behind the sanctuary or from the church office.

Finally for the younger generation Vacation Bible School will take place July 27, 28, 30, and31. This evening program offers a fun time of bible learning, crafts, games, and snacks. Youth and adults are encouraged to volunteer, and parents and grandparents are urged to enroll their children and grandchildren.

Too often people are inclined to take off from church in the summertime. This year, why not bless yourself and your family by taking a little extra time for God and taking advantage of the special gifts that summertime has to offer for those who love the Lord. Have a blessed summer!

In Christ's love,

Rev. Peggy Ann Sauerhoff