WOW! What an amazing time we have had these past 150 days. And what an amazing Church Anniversary Celebration Birthday Party we had on September 15th. In this special addition we are going to share many photos that were captured during our celebration. If you were not able to join us let me share some meaningful highlights that captured my attention. I read the scriptures and glory sightings shared on the sanctuary windows…Amazing! Worship included sharing names of those who are with us no longer but had given so much to the life of this church. Before I could finish the invitation to lift up those names, people starting saying names. As names were being shared I could see in the face of other an acknowledgement or a “Yes! I remember them.” It was a blessed moment. We then lit a candle symbolizing their light will always remain with us. The children’s message…What can I say…it was a BLAST! No literally…I set off a confetti blaster to begin our celebration time! (Stuart – Mt. Vernon, I am putting you on notice, any time I have the opportunity to do set of a confetti blaster…I’M ALL IN!) The message of we have more similarities than differences and we must work together to get the work done was spread by the mixing of Cyclone & Hawkeye M&M’s (really, the only reason I listed Cyclone’s first was alphabetically “SMILE”) and a vacation bible school pool noodle game. The sermon highlighting that “The Church Matters” reinforced that we as members of the body of Christ in the world makes a difference in and for the world. YES, kids matter, people matter, you matter and together we make up the church and the Church Matters! Special Thanks… First and foremost, thank you God for your love, blessings, and vision given to us your people. Secondly, thank you to the Healthy Church Initiative Leaders who planned, organized, and worked to make it a wonderful blessing. For the hand written invitations that were sent out. For the donations of food and the meal that was prepared. For the decorations and décor (including 150 balloons). For the activities and games. For the special guest Nutzo the clown, For the “150” cupcake cake (made with 150 cupcakes…Thanks Jasmine, I couldn’t have done it without you!). For all the volunteers! Most importantly for all who were present, members & guest, that enjoyed the day!

loving God heart, mind, soul, and strength

pastor latonya