Pastor Tim’s July Message

A very special congratulations goes out to our longest-serving staff member, Jane Gue. This month marks 10 years of faithful service to St. Philip Lutheran Church as our Church Secretary/Office Administrator!

Think about that for just a minute. 10 years’ worth of weekly worship bulletins. 10 years’ worth of wedding and funeral bulletins. 10 years’ worth of monthly “Epistle” newsletters. 10 years’ worth of answering phone calls and emails and knocks on doors. 10 years’ worth of managing our facilities and the myriad of groups that meet here. 10 years’ worth of smiles, encouraging words, and a listening ear. Years of weekly worship slides, setting up of Zoom meetings, and various sign-up “sheets.” A solid decade of helping in any way, shape, or form when asked. Indeed, there have been times when she has been the G(l)ue :) which has held this congregation together, particularly during times of pastoral and staff transition.

Not only has she served us so faithfully and well over these 10 years, but the character and grace with which she has done so is remarkable. She has handled many situations with patience and kindness, when those things have not necessarily been extended to her. She has bent over backwards time and again to be as accommodating as possible. I’ve lost track of the number of times people – for whom she has been the first point of contact with our church – have gone out of their way to compliment her.

She has served us with grace, distinction, and honor. Her insight and wisdom have been invaluable.

I would humbly ask that each of you please take a brief moment out of your schedule to give her a phone call, send an email or text, give her a card and/or small gift as a way of recognizing her and her service on this momentous milestone. She deserves to be celebrated! What a gift she has been and continues to be. We would not be where we are without Jane. We love you, Jane, and congratulate you on this occasion. You have our undying gratitude.

Also, this month we will begin our annual “Back to School Supply Drive,” purchasing basic supplies for children and families in need in our community as the kids prepare to return to school next month. Please see Kai Thurow’s article for further details. We always respond generously in this endeavor, and I have no doubt this summer will be the same. Thank you all for your generous hearts!

Sharing the Love of Christ,
Pastor Tim