Dear Gloria Dei,
This weekend in worship we continue our preaching series “Important Teachings of Jesus.” Two weeks ago, we focused on Jesus’ use of the phrase “The Kingdom of God” in his teachings. Last week we looked at Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount and his vision for turning an upside-down world right side-up again.
This week and next week we will zoom in on two of Jesus’ parables, both found in Matthew 13. In preparation for worship, you can read the entire chapter. In a world where there are so many voices coming at us from all sides, it is vital that we listen, above all, to the voice of Jesus. Digging into Jesus’ teachings gives our lives the assurance of God’s loving presence with us always and provides direction and purpose for our living.
Speaking of direction and purpose, Jesus also leads the way in terms of the direction for our life together as a congregation. With that in mind, I’d like to let you know that the Church Council has chosen eight people to serve on the Call Committee and they have said, “Yes.” An additional member from the Gloria Dei staff will have voice but not vote.
The Call Committee members charged with the important work of seeking the next Sr. Pastor for Gloria Dei are the following:
Paul Amundson
Sara Dannen
Gianna Goodroad
Stan Hanson
Kimber Severson (Current Council Member)
Jon Sogn
Brady Stenzel
Josh Weiland
Jessica Kruse (Gloria Dei Faith Community Nurse)
This group will have its first meeting within the next two weeks. I ask that you keep these people and their important work in your prayers. We will provide regular updates on the call process so that everyone knows what is involved as we move forward. One of the first steps for the Call Committee will be to put together a congregational profile, which provides a snapshot of the ministry happening at Gloria Dei and the characteristics we will be looking for in the next Sr. Pastor. Of course, any recommendations from the Call Committee will need to be approved by you, the congregation. Please know that the work they do is confidential, especially when it comes to the time of interviewing potential candidates. Thanks for respecting that reality.
Again, we will keep the congregation updated on the steps and the progress being made. Gloria Dei has a bright future ahead as the Word of God continues to be proclaimed and lived out in and through all of you.
See you in worship,
Pastor Tim
