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During the months of the current vacancy, we as a congregation have had the opportunity to continue to define just what it means to be a Christian community and to develop a vision for the future. I know that all of us are keenly interested in what the future ministry of Saint John’s will look like.

But for the moment, I want to share with you a few observations about what I have already learned about our church in the last seven months of the current vacancy. This is what I see happening on a weekly basis here at church.

Saint John’s is a joyful place. You can see that joy every Sunday as people greet and welcome one another. We know the true joy of a Christian community where worship is marked by praise and thanks and where we all sense the presence of God among us. I see smiles on the faces of our members, smiles that are genuine and reflect the Lord smiling upon us all.

Saint John’s is a caring and compassionate church. I am astounded at the love and devotion that our members show to each other. This church is like a big family where everyone matters and where everyone’s needs are responded to with love and concern. The love of Christ is fully evident in the words that are expressed to those in need, to the interest shown to a visitor or stranger who enters our midst and to those who are experiencing grief or sorrow.

Saint John’s is a church where you will find people in mission. Here, as in no church I have ever seen, it is often times the people of the church who are actively defining and pursuing and shaping the kind of ministry to which we believe the Lord is calling us. That ministry may take many forms, but at its heart is the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ, Savior of the world.

Saint John’s is a church richly blessed with resourceful, talented people. Again, I am amazed at the gifts God has given to the people of this church. When people are inspired to use their talents and abilities in the ministry set before us, truly wonderful things happen. Each of us has skills and abilities and talents that can be used to build God’s kingdom and proclaim His goodness.

Saint John’s is a Gospel-oriented church. At the heart of everything we do is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. If it doesn't resonate with the Gospel, it’s not worth our time or energy. The Gospel shapes and defines our attitudes and our sense of outreach. It inspires us to good works and joyful commitment. In short, the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the power of God among us.

Saint John’s is a Christian community, the body of Christ. We live by the forgiveness that we experience daily through our Savior. We believe the Holy Spirit is leading us into all truth. We walk into God’s future confident that He will bless and keep us in His grace and proper the ministry set before us.

Thank you for allowing me, during this wonderful time, to be a part of this very special congregation.

Rev. Ron Nickel is Vacancy Pastor at Saint John’s Lutheran Church. You can reach him in the church office, by email at nickel@StJohnsFC.org or at 970-482-5316.