Pastor’s Weekly Message: 3/13/2025

Hey All,

This week marks five years since everything changed. In March of 2020, the world came to a halt as the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped our daily lives. We remember the uncertainty—the sudden shift to staying home, the empty grocery store shelves, and the sense that life as we knew it had been upended. Americans stocked up on essentials, not knowing how long the isolation would last.

And yet, through it all, we discovered something profound: a resilience of spirit that has carried us forward. As difficult and painful as the pandemic was, it revealed the strength of our faith, our communities, and our capacity to endure.

Now, five years later, we find ourselves in a world that allows us to move freely again. We can gather in stores, in homes, and in church without hesitation. May we take a moment to be truly grateful for that. The simple act of seeing friends, shaking hands, and worshiping together is something we no longer take for granted.

At the same time, if we still carry habits of isolation, let’s be mindful. While there are times when distance is necessary—especially during illness—we are created to be in community. Connection is part of our calling. As we move forward, let’s embrace the gift of gathering, of worshiping side by side, and of sharing life together. May this be a season of gratitude, presence, and renewed appreciation for one another.

Peace,

Pastor Marty