Pastor's Page

February 2008

Our Annual Meeting went very well.  There is a good spirit of mission and connection to the leading of the spirit.  People seem to be excited and supportive of what God is doing in our midst.

One very exciting step that will be occurring this year is that we will add an intern to our staff.  I have personally supervised two Interns and love the excitement it brings to a church.  There is an energy that comes through a person who is preparing to be a pastor.  Everything is fresh and hopeful as this person has their first chance to use their gifts in a pastor ministry.  Every Intern is different but each one brings a unique spark to the church that they serve.

          A second benefit is that as a church we know that we are making a difference for the larger church as the patterns and lessons the intern learns often becomes foundational in how they will pastor.  I have shared many times that I had a wonderful internship pastor and congregation which helped me to grow and develop as a pastor.  We will very literally touch many congregations by our helping an intern to grow.

          My vision for an intern at LCC would include a well rounded experience helping with all areas of pastoral ministry.  Our intern would likely preach every third Sunday, help with the 8^th grade confirmation Class, do home visits with members and visitors, work on a project of passion, and in our context help us to develop a strong program for our youth.

          An intern would start sometime late summer and remain with us for about a year.  The person could be single, married, or even have a family.  I will be going to Luther to interview soon and we should know by April if we will receive an intern and if so who that person is.  We would then determine a start date and help that person to secure housing in the area.  We will also be seeking a committee of 4 to 6 people who will spend time with the intern and help that person to set goals, reflect on their experience, and provide growth and insight opportunities.

          Overall internship is an exciting growth opportunity for LCC.  God is leading and directing and we are following faithfully.  It is exciting to be a part of what God is doing in this church and in this community.  And thank you for your partnership in this journey.

Seeking and Serving Christ,

Pastor Philip

SPIRITUAL THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The uncertain future of our world might be compared to Mount Sinai during the time of Moses when he was in intense fear and uttered, "I am trembling with fear".  Our hope for the future, according to the writer of Hebrews in the Bible, is compared to Mount Zion, the city of the living God, a Kingdom that can not be shaken.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY TO YOU?
Though the Bible was written centuries ago, it is the Word of God and it still speaks to us today. If you are dealing with life's problems, as all of us are, this link, from the ELCA, can provide spiritual guidance, as you face life's many challenges.