Reflections on a Busy Summer
 
     It doesn't seem possible but it's true. Summer vacation, at least for school age folk, is nearly over. Soon we will see the big yellow submarines meandering through the streets of Savannah, transporting kids to and from their bus stops. And soon, I think, I hope, we will be able to dial up our thermostats a degree or two. I don't know how you feel, but to me this summer has been a little hectic. First, there was the "big move." Cindy and I concluded our time of ministry with our Wynnton family in Columbus, Georgia and traveled across the state to a brand new family here at Isle of Hope. It has taken some time for us, and I certainly know for all of you, to process the emotions associated with pastoral transitions. I want to thank you for being patient, helpful and understanding as we all work through this time of change. Also, since summer is so hectic for everyone, I realize there are still many of you we have yet to meet personally. Pastor Jim and I really look forward to getting to know you and your family. We intend to keep introducing ourselves to the congregation for a little while because we know there are many who are seeing our faces for the first time. It would be helpful also if you could, just for a short time, continue to introduce yourself to us. Thank you for understanding.
    While the summer has been hectic and hot, it has also been a powerful time of ministry for this congregation. I am continually amazed each week at how many of you are involved in missions, both locally and beyond. That is a testimony to God's grace at work among us. Continually extending our reach to a world in desperate need of Christ's saving love and grace is what this Church is all about. I am grateful to be a part of that kind of vision.
      Now as we move forward into the fall, please pray that God will provide the necessary financial resources to fulfill His plan for our ministry. Isle of Hope UMC, like every other church, has felt the affects of a difficult economy and a challenging summer. As we enter the fall, I am praying and believing that we will have the resources needed to complete our agreed upon ministry vision for 2010. As you can see from our quarterly financial report, we are facing a very challenging time. I do believe, however, that with all of us sharing in our agreed upon ministry vision, through sacrificial giving God will bless us greatly! So let's pray and sow generously that we might see an even greater harvest for the glory of God in the coming months.
 
Seeking ways to Love, Grow, Serve, Share,
Mike