Welcome!
From
the Minister’s Desk . . .
An Ending . . . A Beginning
Friday morning, December 21, 2007. The date on the
computer screen is one more reminder that another year is nearing
its end and I’ll soon be turning the page to a new year. Meanwhile,
there’s a lot still to do with what’s left of 2007. I began the day
by helping Irene Fassam and Jenni load one of the church vans with
what looked like a ton of gifts destined for Mountain Mission
School. “We’ll never get all that stuff in one van,” I thought.
But we did! On the seats, under the seats, and between the seats,
floor to ceiling, we packed it in, including the ironing board one
of the students requested. The elves who work for that fat guy
couldn’t have done it any better!
I tell you all this because it’s another reminder of
the caring and generous spirit of our church family at Belmont.
Through all our years of ministry here, one thing that has always
stood out is the loving spirit of the people here. Reaching out in
love to other people is a “trademark” of our congregation. This
year has been a demonstration of that in many ways.
Throughout the year we have worked together in many
efforts to share the love and message of Christ with our community
and the world. Our outreach efforts to the local community have
made people aware that we are a church who cares. Our record
missions support has demonstrated a loving concern for the people of
other nations as well.
The year brought sadness to our church family with the
deaths of several members and loved ones of members. Some of our
members faced the uncertainty and anxiety of serious health issues.
A number of our people have faced personal issues and concerns that
burden their hearts. The year also brought joy to some of our
families as babies were welcomed to our world. In the joys and
sorrows we have loved and supported one another.
As these last few days of December bring 2007 to a
close and I prepare to turn that page to the New Year, I know that
it will be a time of transition in light of my plans to retire. I
turn that page with the assurance that God continues to bless and
guide the efforts of those who serve Him.
May we all trust in His life-changing power in this Year
of our Lord, A.D 2008.
Yours in His
love,
Jim
Sunday Worship Service 
