Dear youth and parents,
 
I'm playing a pretty intense game of catch-up this week after eight days away on the CYF Mission Trip.   We had an incredible experience learning and serving at Yakama Christian Mission and exploring the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.  If you'd like to see what we were up to, use the link below to take a look at photos from the trip (and check back for additions in the days to come).

By now you should have received Anna's resignation letter by mail.  (If not, an electronic copy is available here.)  Anna has given so much of herself as a member of our staff over the last two years and as a church member and volunteer before that.  She has accompanied our middle school youth on the journey of faith; planned and led lock-ins, retreats, and trips; worked with Chi Rho sponsors and teachers to help them connect with the young people in their care; taught classes and led youth groups; served as a counselor and steward at summer camps; provided guidance, support, and encouragement for youth while sharing coffee or ice cream; offered thoughtful prayers, readings, and communion meditations in morning worship and at The Search; worked her way through the myriad of details that get tackled behind the scenes; and she's taken on the other tasks related to ministry at UCC that are too numerous to list.

I'm thankful for the gifts Anna has shared, and for the stable presence she has provided during a time of great transition at UCC.  I know that you're thankful as well, and we will have opportunities on Sunday, August 8 to express our appreciation to her and wish her well as she concludes her ministry here and continues to discern God's calling in her life.  Watch for details on farewell receptions in next week's e-news, and I'll look forward to seeing you there.

Grace and Peace,
Russ

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