This Sunday is Rally Day!  The day we celebrate the beginning of another year of ministry and mission here at Emmanuel Presbyterian Church.  It could also be called “Back to Church Sunday” as we get back into the rhythm that comes when the slow summer months gear back up and routine sets back in. 

I am excited for this year ahead and the opportunities that we have to share life together.  I am also excited to share with you the theme I chose for this year: “Walking with Jesus.”  I love this theme because it conjures up two images for me…adventure and companionship. 

Adventure: I always love beginnings and the excitement that comes with them.  I also love exploring new places and experiencing new things.  Adventure is the perfect word to sum up our theme “Walking with Jesus”.  For whether you have been walking with Jesus for decades or only a few short months, there is so much adventure that lies ahead, new experiences to be had, and depths to be explored.  So, as we lace up our shoes and begin a new journey together… adventure awaits!   

Companionship: I believe adventure is always better with company.  And what could be better than adventure WITH Jesus.  At the beginning of the summer, I handed out small stuffed Jesus dolls with the challenge to take Jesus with you wherever you went this summer, take a picture and send it me.  It was so much fun to see all the places Jesus went…Iceland, Japan, Germany, Ireland, Alaska, Maine, California, Wisconsin and lots of places in Arizona!  (You can see some of the photos on our website!)  I think walking with Jesus is like walking with a friend!  It doesn’t matter if you are a speed walker, a Sunday stroller, or occasionally brave the heat to walk to the mailbox…each of us walk and why not chose to walk with a friend!

I hope you will join us this Sunday for our Rally Day Celebration!  I am excited to share with you some of the ways you can Walk with Jesus throughout the year ahead.   It is my hope that this year we can grow in our faith, strengthen our friendships and serve our community as we Walk with Jesus.

Blessings,
Pastor Jenni

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)