July/August Chimes

July 2024

Dear Siblings in Christ,

Summer always seems like a great time to take a step back, go a little slower, and spend more time in appreciation. Lots of folks are on vacation, kids are off school, routines are changed up a bit. Here at church, many of our education and fellowship groups take a break for the summer months, which means things often feel a little calmer. Although, by the time August rolls around, we’re usually more than ready for a little more activity and busyness.

This summer at St. Paul’s, we’re taking some time to say, “Thank you.” Thank you for the ways that you show up and support our ministry here at the church and thank you for your gifts that allow our congregation to make a difference in our community and the world.

Throughout these last months of summer, we’ll be welcoming people from organizations that St. Paul’s partners with in mission: the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, Lutheran Settlement House, Ardmore Food Pantry, Lutheran World Relief, and more. They’ll be sharing the stories of their organizations, stories that we at St. Paul’s are a part of through our gifts and support and prayers. Support that is only possible because of your generosity.

We’ll also highlight some of the wonderful ministries happening within our walls: our worship and music programs, education for children and adults, and social activities and projects. We often don’t think of these things as part of how the church gives—they seem more internally focused. But everything we do together as a community helps us grow as disciples. They help us grow in faith and love, bringing us closer to God and each other. Even these “internal” things help to love and serve our neighbors, because they help shape us as people of love and service, every day.

I hope you’ll be able to join us in worship (or online!) in the coming weeks as we say thank you. Thank you for sharing what you have with our church. Thank you for your gifts of your energy, your prayers, your financial resources, your time. Our church truly would not be the same community without everyone who contributes to making it a beautiful piece of the body of Christ.

With gratitude and thanksgiving,

Pastor Laura

Read the July/August Chimes HERE