It’s hard to believe that November is upon us! As we enter the season of gratitude, my heart is full of thankfulness for you, Union Family. Your thoughtfulness and encouragement during Pastor Appreciation Month have meant so much to me. You all are incredibly creative and have a special way of making a person feel deeply loved and appreciated. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
In November, we have so many things to look forward to together! Below are a few highlights I want to share. I pray you will take part as the Lord leads. Each of you plays a crucial role in our shared ministry as a church, and I am deeply grateful for how you let God use your gifts, talents, and skills. I am glad we are a church that actively seeks to share God's love, and your continued involvement makes a significant difference.
Sunday, November 3, is All Saints Sunday. During worship, we will light candles to remember and honor those who are now part of the Great Cloud of Witnesses. This service is always deeply meaningful as we give thanks for those who have gone before us and pointed us to the Lord.
Next Monday, November 4, at 5:30 PM, we will join other churches for a Community Prayer Service at Watkinsville First United Methodist Church. This service is a time for us to come together as a community of Christ-followers in unity, peace, and love. In the face of political polarization and division, we are reminded that Christ calls us to unity. This gathering with other sister churches offers us a chance to lay aside our differences and seek God's unifying heart together. I hope you will join us for this special time of prayer and fellowship.
We are also looking forward to our Veteran’s Appreciation Luncheon on Wednesday, November 6, at 11:30 AM in the Union Fellowship Hall. This luncheon is a special time to gather, share a meal, and express our gratitude for those who have given so much in service to our country.
On Sunday, November 10, we will have our annual veterans' recognition during morning worship. If you have a loved one who has served, we would love to include their picture in our photo slideshow. Please invite a veteran to join us that Sunday as we honor their commitment and sacrifice in a spirit of gratitude and remembrance.
November also comes with a host of opportunities to share with people in need. Union will be busy sharing Thanksgiving Boxes, collecting supplies, packing Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes, and volunteering with Family Promise and ACTS! I am thankful for the many ways you seek to serve and share God's love in our community! God is using you well, and I am so thankful for your continued faithfulness.
Most of all this November, I hope you will take time each day to thank God for who he is and for what he has done in your life. He loves you, Union family, and I do too!