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Joy.  Joy has overwhelmed me the past few weeks as I think about this church and where we are heading.  Over the past year this congregation has made some remarkable strides.  The deacon’s program is stronger than ever, visiting people and keeping the congregation connected.  We’ve engaged in mission projects, including coats and boots for the children of Safe Harbor this Christmas, filling up the Galesburg hygiene pantry last summer, stepping up our support of the FISH food pantry during this time of extreme need, becoming more involved in our Blessings in a Backpack partnership with Knox College, and providing KIVA loans throughout the year.  We’ve found ways to fellowship and have fun with Summer Fun Days and potlucks.

This congregation has always had a strong sense of community but that community atmosphere seems to be growing and strengthening.  I can feel it when we share Joys and Concerns on Sunday and pray together.  I feel it when someone drops by my office to chat.  I feel it when we gather for coffee and conversations.  I feel it as the choir sings or instruments play.  I feel it as new people show up in worship and our attendance continues to grow.

That positive spirit was also present in our fall stewardship campaign.  People seem to feel excited about this community and believe in what this congregation is doing.  The number of people or families who have made a pledge for 2024 has increased 14% compared to the last two years.  Also, pledges are up.  This is the largest stewardship campaign in at least five years!

We have our feet under us and we are already moving in the right direction.  I believe that 2024 has great things in store for the people called Presbyterians in Galesburg.  Will you walk with me as we step into a new year?  In the next year I am asking this congregation to be focused on Luke 10:23-27 (specifically Luke 10:27) where we are called to love God, ourselves and our neighbors.  Last year we focused on the very important work of building a Christian community (loving our neighbors within this congregation).  My hope for this next year is that we can take the next step:  become more focused on reaching out to our neighbors in Galesburg in mission and outreach.  I believe we are a strong and compassionate congregation with much to offer and I can’t wait to see what new things God can do through us for Galesburg (and beyond)!