Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I greet you all in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is with great joy and gratitude that I write to you today, reflecting on the incredible journey we share as a church family.

As I think of each of you, I am reminded of the Apostle Paul's words to the Thessalonians: "We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Thessalonians 1:2-3).

In these challenging times, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and disheartened. Yet, it is in these very moments that our faith is most profoundly tested and refined. Remember, dear friends, that our God is a God of hope, who fills us with all joy and peace as we trust in Him (Romans 15:13). He has promised never to leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).

I am continually uplifted by the love and unity I witness among us. Your commitment to serving one another and our community is a testament to the transformative power of Christ's love. Let us continue to spur one another on toward love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24), always seeking to reflect the light of Christ in all we do.

May we hold steadfastly to our faith, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). Let us encourage one another daily, as long as it is called "Today," so that none of us may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness (Hebrews 3:13).

I pray that the Holy Spirit will continue to work in and through us, strengthening our bond and deepening our love for one another. May we always find comfort and inspiration in God's Word, and may we draw ever closer to Him in prayer.

As we move forward, let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). He is our source of strength and our ultimate example of love and sacrifice.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

In Christ's love,

Bill Doane