A Year of Growth

Last week I had opportunity to attend a Pastoral Institute in Glendale with a number of fellow WELS pastors to study the book of Philippians in the original Greek.  It was great to be surrounded by my brothers in the ministry and to continue my own personal growth and study of God's Word.  While the institute was only a day and a half, the important and valuable ministry and study advice I received from those in attendance will last a lifetime.
This year also has been one of tremendous growth for the congregations of East Fork and Canyon Day as we've had a number of new faces in church.  Attendance increased at both churches and we have our largest number of students enrolled in Bible Information and Confirmation Classes.  It has been exciting to lead people through God's plan of salvation and the main teachings of our Christian faith.

Happy New Year!

As we enter into a new year we look forward to serving God's people in the Apachelands of Arizona with the gospel message.  It's that message that makes all the difference in the lives of every person on earth.  Lives that can be so unfulfilling, depressing, and meaningless without the truth of God's amazing love and mercy.  That thought has really hit home these past few weeks with a number of our brothers and sisters who have completed their journey of faith here on earth and are now standing before the throne of their Almighty Savior.  With the confidence of Job we can say "I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!" 

Merry Christmas!

We hope that you have a very Merry Christmas as you prepare your hearts and minds to celebrate the birthday of our Savior.  Let everyone know that the real present of Christmas is not found under a tree but was hanging on a tree to die for the sins of you and me.  The present of our Savior and his life, death, and resurrection is what Christmas is all about.  Help people to put Christ back in Christmas and in their lives each day.