PASTOR’S PEN . . .
by Pastor Dave Templin

‘Tis the season for change.  Yes, the end of spring brings many changes in life, not to mention the annual growing season in the northern hemisphere.  But, what about the ‘sphere’ of the church?  This, too, sees growth and change during these days and the weeks ahead.  (continued)

by Kurt Imbach

It is exciting to be able to communicate with you in this new way, and to be able to tell you about church fellowship plans which I know is of key interest to all of you.  Thank you again for giving me this opportunity.

One of the great legacies of our Forty Day effort is the existence of a number of small group fellowship units.  We certainly will want to continue to strengthen these as well as to create whatever more become workable.  How this will be done will require sensitivity, flexibility and creativity.    (continued)

This is a word that you are going to be hearing a lot over the next few weeks.  You will have people lined all around you to express their approval and commendation of your accomplishment.  For a short time, you will be surrounded by adoring fans who will lavish you with fine gifts (hopefully anyway) and salute you for your accomplishment.  Grads, I tell you to relish every second of it.  You have earned it; drink it in, savor every second. (continued)
 

One Great Hour of Sharing - June 12th.  

We are so blessed here in our Island home of Whidbey.  

Although our nation is at war, most of us do not really understand what it is like to live in constant fear for the lives of our families.

We can’t really identify with the despair of those who lost all possessions; their livelihood and many loved ones in the tsunami.

What must it be like as a small farmer losing the struggle to compete with mega farms backed by mega dollars?

How often do we thank God for our clean water, access to health care, educational opportunities, a dry, clean place to sleep?

We are very blessed, so distant from the sufferings of much of the world.  Few of us can actually go out to bring comfort to those most in need, BUT you can help by providing the resources for others to go in your place.

PC (USA) uses the funds collected in our One Great Hour of Sharing for many relief efforts both nationally and internationally.  Check the Sunday bulletin inserts  for a small sample of the types of efforts these funds provide through your gifts for the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
 

Whidbey Presbyterian has supported Wycliffe Bible Translators for many years and the Burkes are our adopted missionary family.

If you were not with us that Sunday, check out the Mission Bulletin Board in Heritage Hall and get to know a little more about the Burke family and their work in Chad, Africa.

They are praying for you, please help them.  Pick up a “prayer card” with their picture on it from the information boxes below the bulletin board.  You can sign up to receive their newsletter or pledge your support to our missionary family as a prayer partner.  They need your love and support, they are your representatives to the witness of the love of our Lord.

If you would like more information about Wycliffe, feel free to talk to our own Barbara Grossman.  She and her husband (deceased) worked with Wycliffe for over 50 years and Barbara continues to serve when needed! 

And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation.”  — Mark 16:15

Get to know the Burkes, become partners with them as they soldier on, with your help, in the army of our Lord.
 

Our last formal meeting until September went well.  We learned the history of three hymns and confirmed that we are keeping our leaders for another year.  Yea!

Presbyterian Women are honoring three of our graduating high school seniors with small scholarships:

     Ryan B., Elisa L., Cameron J.

We wish all our graduating seniors a great and blessed future.
 

Our summer worship schedule begins on June 19th!  We are bringing back the breakfast service in Heritage Hall at 8:30 A.M., with our traditional service starting at 10:00 A.M.

We need families to serve as breakfast hosts and musicians to provide worship leadership.  Let the Worship Team know which Sundays you can help this summer.

The Adult Education Team will present two classes in June, in the Blue House:

June 5—Norm McCrea will talk about “The Saints Go Marching Out,” (short term missions).

June 12—Ray and Sandra Vander Pol will be here to speak about “15 Years in Haiti.”
 

Session Report.  Approved: Using the Mikki Cole memorial funds for kitchen cabinets, Mel Edstrom’s bid for cabinetry and trimming of kitchen windows, Dinners for Eight on June 24th and 25th,  the flooring for the new kitchen,  the evening of June 5th for Sunday School celebration and supper.  Heard the report of May 18th North Puget Sound Presbytery meeting.

     —Gerry M., Clerk of Session
 

Office Small Talk.  My thanks to everyone who has stopped by to introduce themselves and say “hello!” .  I have been so warmly welcomed and am happy to tell you how much I (already!) enjoy working here.

Thanks for your patience as I learn your names and as I work to learn how things are done here at WPC.  I am grateful for all the help I have received so far, and welcome your input as we go forward.

I feel really privileged to work with such a great staff and I look forward to many happy days as we all work together for the  glory of God.

                Your servant,

                Judy Pinkerton
 

Serengiti Trek VBS Coming Soon.   Preparations continue for “Serengeti Trek” Vacation Bible School, to be held June 20-24, 9 A.M.—noon at the church.  Children 3 years through 6th grade are welcome, with Bible stories, crafts, snacks, singing and games planned.  Volunteers are needed for helping in the kitchen, helping with storytelling and games, to serve as crew leaders for various age groups, registrars for Coffee Hours, or Monday and Tuesday at VBS.  In addition, we need someone to photograph and print group pictures.

Please donate items for snacks and crafts.  See VBS bulletin board in Heritage Hall for listings.

Please remember in prayer all of those who participate in this ministry and mission. 

For more information, contact Anita J. or the church office.
 

         Bob, Donna, and Michael Fraser