Why?!

One of the most common questions a toddler asks is, "Why?" I'm sure it has to do with child development and trying to find some understanding and control of their world. I'd need to break out some of my old psychology text books for a more thorough answer.

However, we never really grow out of asking "Why?" - especially when things don't go the way we think they should. I've had seasons in my life in which I seriously questioned why God was allowing certain things to happen to me and why He didn't intervene to make things right (including zapping the people I had identified as needing a good celestial zap!)

As we've been reading through the book of Genesis this week as a part of our Immerse Beginnings bible reading experience, the story has focused on Joseph. Talk about plenty of reasons to ask, "WHY?!!"

This Sunday, October 14th, we'll talk about how to handle being "in the pits". It's never pleasant, but the good news is that we're never alone! I hope you'll be able to join us. 

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You've probably noticed that our church family photo board is empty. It was getting kind of messy and, more importantly, some of those pictures were pretty out of date! When your child is in high school, but the photo depicts an elementary version, it's time for an update!

We're blessed to have Anne Young as a part of our church family on a semi-regular basis. Anne's husband, Nathan, is co-owner of the Old Schoolhouse Brewery, and Anne is a professional photographer (check out her beautiful work at www.youngreflectionsphotography.com) She's graciously volunteered to set up a portable studio and take individual and family photographs for FREE!

On this Sunday, October 14th, and next Sunday, October 21st, you can get your picture taken before the worship service (9:30-10:00) or immediately following it (11:30-12:30). Go to my office (just down the hall from the kitchen) and be a part of our church family photo board! There will also be a make-up day available in November (TBD).

If, by chance, you would prefer to submit a photo, we won't turn you down. Just make sure that it's a fairly recent one. (Maybe someday we'll create a photo board with all of our high school graduation photos!).

Thanks, Anne!

WE NEED CANDY!

No, not for me to snack on while I write my sermon (although, that sounds like a good idea, too). We're seeking to collect 100+ lbs of candy for our Trunk or Treat event on October 31st.

Each year 200+ children and their parents come to our church parking lot and trick or treat from one car trunk to the next. We set up a fire barrel, the White's offer hot apple cider, and Gene Westlund provides rides in his John Deere tractor train. It's a wonderful time to share the love of Jesus and build relationships with our valley neighbors.

You can drop off bags of candy at the church on Sunday. I'd also like to encourage you to participate in the event by decorating your vehicle's trunk and handing out the treats. It's a lot of fun! And you should consider attending the event (Wednesday, Oct. 31st, 5-6:30 pm) and being a friendly greeter for those who attend.

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