Dear Church Family,
Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on the blessings of the past year and look ahead with anticipation to what God has in store for us. January is a time of fresh starts, renewed commitments, and hopeful expectations—both in our personal lives and in the life of the church.
The new year provides an opportunity to consider how we can grow deeper in our faith and live out our calling as disciples of Jesus Christ. One way we do this as United Methodists is by reflecting on our membership vows: to faithfully participate in the ministries of the church through our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness. These vows are not merely obligations; they are invitations to experience the joy of being part of God’s work in the world.
As we turn the calendar to January, two key moments in the church’s life invite us into this deeper commitment. First, we celebrate the Baptism of the Lord, remembering Jesus’ baptism and renewing our own baptismal vows. This is a powerful reminder of our identity as God’s beloved children and our mission to share God’s love with others.
Second, we enter the season of Epiphany, a time to reflect on how Christ’s light shines in our lives and how we can be bearers of that light in a world longing for hope and healing. As the Magi followed the star to Jesus, we are called to seek Him and to share His light with our neighbors, near and far.
In this season of new beginnings, I encourage you to prayerfully consider how God is calling you to grow in faith and service. Perhaps this is the year to join a small group, begin a daily devotional practice, or volunteer in a ministry that stirs your heart. Whatever the step, know that you are not walking this journey alone. We are a community of faith, bound together by God’s grace and strengthened by one another.
Let us embrace this new year with hearts open to God’s leading and hands ready to serve. May we, as a church family, shine Christ’s light brightly in our community and beyond.
Blessings,
Rev. Candace