On Sunday, our scripture texts and sermon will begin to cast our gaze toward the future. This month’s transitional theme is: How Do We See Our Future (and Our Future Pastor)? Our scripture texts will be Luke 7:18-23 and Philippians 1:3-11. In Philippians, Paul writes to his beloved church there: I’m sure about this: the one who started a good work in you will stay with you to complete the job by the day of Christ Jesus. Comforting words for a church in transition, like our own. God’s future beckons us forward, as God has blessed us in the past! How does Paul know this? Next, he writes: I have good reason to think this way about all of you because I keep you in my heart. I know that feeling, as I keep all of you – sorry – all y’all in my heart. And I also see God continuing the many good works that this church has done and is doing, in the name of Jesus Christ, for years to come. It’s written in the heart. See you Sunday!

I am looking forward to our Explorers Class, on Sunday, September 21, after worship, in the library/conference room. This class is designed for people who wish to learn more about church membership here at PLPC. We will discuss the Presbyterian Church (USA) in general, Priest Lake Presbyterian Church in particular, and all that is involved in becoming a member. We’ll also have an opportunity to get to know one another a little better. Please join us, and learn more about the church!

The session is inviting interested members of the church to prayerfully consider serving as church treasurer. Laura Bradford, who has been faithfully and capably serving as treasurer, will be concluding her service by the end of the year. The session is seeking someone who has experience in accounting and/or bookkeeping, has a working knowledge of QuickBooks, and will bring proven communication and collaboration skills. The position also requires someone who can be trusted with confidential information. This is a volunteer position, designed to support and resource the congregation in its financial operations, as we faithfully follow the call of Jesus Christ. The approximate time required is 3-4 hours per week. If you are interested, or wish to learn more about the treasurer position, please contact Bonnie Shapbell (629-333-4239) or Rev. Ray Thomas.

Alan Jackson’s “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)” is a deeply reflective country ballad written in response to the September 11 attacks. It captures the emotional aftermath through a series of poignant questions— “Did you weep for the children who lost their dear loved ones?”—without political commentary, focusing instead on faith, love, and shared humanity.
On the morning of September 11th, 2001, we were in College Station, Texas.  I had just started a new job with the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX).  My new job was to help develop training for terrorism events.  At 8am that morning I was in new employee training.  At 9:15 that morning – we stopped class and were asked to come watch the television.  At that point the world stopped.  My reason for joining TEEX was set, as was my next 24 years.
We can’t always be in the right place at the right time, but I have felt that on 11 September 2001 was in the right place.  Were ever you are, do what you can.  WWJD – What would Jesus Do?