Blog

New Year News
Wow – so much is happening in the life of Cross of Life, it’s difficult to know what to highlight! But here goes!

Service of Hope
For those who were unable to attend, this time of worship and remembrance was a beautiful experience for all who participated. Recognizing that for many, the Christmas season is a time of increased grief, struggle and loneliness, this service used the candles of the Advent wreath to recognize our common grief, pain, struggle, and fear. The gathered congregation supported one another in song and prayer, lit candles in remembrance of loved ones and then gathered around a full Christmas meal provided by the Stephen Ministers and Fellowship Team.  If you’ve had a hard time this Christmas, don’t miss this service next year.

COL Music Concert
Once again, Jon Arnold brought together our diverse and talented musicians for a joint Christmas musical celebration. Each ensemble, The Chancel Choir, Bells and Contemporary Band, shared individual performances and then joined their voices for numerous total group pieces. It was truly a joyful song before our Lord. This is certainly a “don’t miss” for next year!

From Diaconal Minister to Deacon
As of January 1st, we will have a new staff member! Well, sort of. Mary Houck, who works as our Director of Youth and Children’s Ministry, will have a new title. As the result of a vote at the 2016 Churchwide Assembly, all lay rostered ministers (Diaconal Ministers, Associates in Ministry, and Deaconesses) will be united under one title: Deacon. From Biblical times to modern times, deacons have carried out the ministry of Word and Service: caring for the widows and orphans, working in the community, providing education for our children and youth. Deacon Mary will continue that tradition in her work at Cross of Life. Please congratulate Deacon Mary on her new title and use it as often as you can!

Joint Commemoration of the Reformation 500
Plans are underway for our commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation! Our Lenten Small Groups and Devotions will focus on Luther’s Small Catechism.  We will have a special commemorative dinner with members of St. Andrew Roman Catholic Church in Roswell in April.  There will be a special worship service on April 30th to highlight the journey of Lutheranism to North America, and more!  Watch for more details!

Sabbatical Update
Plans for the study portion of my upcoming sabbatical are underway. During January/February, I will be sending an online survey to numerous pastors about their work practices. Out of that quantitative analysis, questions will be formulated for my summer site visits and focus group conversations.  Please pray for this study, that God would open our eyes to learn the most effective ways to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ in our hurting world.

+ Pastor Terri +