(we are grateful to Joyce Beales who is now in her 8th year of writing ministry recaps! Follow our facebook page to see pictures!)
January
Well folks, January has come and gone like a whirlwind, and ‘Ol Man Winter’ has arrived with snow, sleet, single-digit temperatures—‘the whole nine yards!’ I’m beginning to sound like my elderly father years ago—he used to say. . . “the older I get, the faster time seems to move!” . . .teach us to number our days to gain a heart of wisdom. . . I found myself considering this, early one morning over a cup of coffee. What does that look like in my life? Am I living intentionally—using my moments wisely [because moments, like nickels, soon accumulate . . . into days, weeks, months. . .years.]. It’s a fair question, and one I need to ask frequently. What better time than a brand new year to reflect on whether my choices reveal priorities of lasting value and the hope I have in Jesus Christ? Want to reflect along with me?
As we consider the choices we’ve made—and those still before us—January offered meaningful moments of growth and connection within our church family. Even in the heart of winter, learning and fellowship flourished. Hans faithfully led Bible study at the Rappahannock Senior Center, while the senior adults at The Culpeper completed a rich and thoughtful journey through the book of Micah. I also had the privilege of walking alongside participants in a small grief support group at The Culpeper, which will conclude in the second week of February. We’re already looking ahead with the hope of launching a Spring support group there, because grief is a journey every one of us faces at some point—and having someone to walk beside you can make all the difference.
The first full week of January our Church family had the joy of serving dinners at the local warming shelter, offering not just warm meals but genuine care and hospitality to our neighbors in need. Each evening was a reminder that simple acts of compassion can bring comfort, dignity, and hope during the coldest nights.
Pastor Dan began a new sermon series last month—What Matters Most—A Life Worth Living. This series explores such timely, relevant themes as: What Really Matters, Purpose Over Pleasure, Community and Belonging, Faith in Suffering—to name only a few. Be sure to visit our website for additional information and discussion guides.
Then, at the end of the month, our sanctuary was transformed into something truly out of this world. Through a partnership with Playdate and Brynmor, we welcomed Cosmic Adventures, a traveling planetarium from Maryland. For a day, this space became a gateway to the stars as several hundred children—and adults—were captivated by the movement of the skies, the wonders of space, and the impact of light pollution. Curiosity was sparked, imaginations soared, and awe filled the room in a powerful reminder that faith and wonder often go hand in hand.
Now for a brief look and what’s coming up next month. Grace Savage will be offering several women’s Bible studies—in person and online, there’s a movie night as we partner with Playdate and Brynmor as well as comedian, Andrew Stanly’s debut on our stage February 25. Andrew was selected as a New Face of Comedy at Montreal’s prestigious Just for Laughs Comedy Festival and appeared on Nate Bargatze’s “The Showcase” on Nateland in 2023. Have a great February, stay well and warm!