Alpine community,
Grace and Peace from God in heaven and our Savior Jesus Christ.
The month of November invites us to focus on the things we are thankful for in life. As Christians, we are always invited to be thankful for the gift of life, love, grace, mercy and forgiveness. We are invited to remember who we are as beloved children of God. I have a lot to be thankful for.
I am beyond thankful for this past year that I have been called as your Pastor. I am thankful for the relationships that we have built and the ways you have invited me into your lives. I am thankful for your kind welcome to my husband, Nathi, and son, Thomas. I am thankful for the ways that you have supported me during this pregnancy. The commitment to supporting one another is deeply rooted in this community. What are you thankful for in this season?
This season can also be very difficult for some of us. It can be a season of mourning and sadness. The holidays bring joy for many, and for others it is another reminder of loss. Be kind to yourself. Find ways to care for you. Feel your emotions and remember the love that makes this season difficult. Please, never feel like you have to grieve alone. Here at Alpine Lutheran Church, you are loved and cared for. You have siblings in Christ that can and will sit with you in your grief. May you feel the constant presence and love of the Holy Spirit with you always.
I will be leaving on maternity leave the week of Thanksgiving. In my absence, Pastor Elizabeth Martin will be filling in for me. I am grateful for her leadership while I am gone and grateful for you all accepting change! I can’t wait to come back and introduce you all to our sweet new addition!
Peace to you all!
Pastor Rachel Perkins-Gama