Hi Everyone!

I returned this week from Guam. The islands were hit in April with a Category 5 typhoon and then again in early July. I was part of the 2nd wave of Red Cross responders to go to the islands. I spent 2 weeks in Saipan and 1 week in Guam. The people there are lovely and most gracious. They are very grateful for the American Red Cross. In 2024, they were hit by a typhoon, and many years earlier, in the early 2000s, they were hit by a typhoon. It is part of island life, just like we have tornadoes. What I noticed about wearing my Red Cross vest around Saipan was that the people were happy to see us, and one person said they know they can rely on the Red Cross to assist them in times of disaster. From the customs agent to the local teenagers who volunteered some of their time to help the people of their island, the Red Cross represented hope. It represented safety, refuge, food, and someone to help them rebuild and get back on their feet. I am not sure how Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross, came up with the idea of using a cross. I think it is appropriate. For Christians worldwide, the sign of a cross represents hope, refuge, and safety. I feel privileged to have been selected to help the people of the Micronesian islands. I am grateful to you, my church, for giving me this time and welcoming Jacob, Chandler, and Bethany as pulpit supply preachers. I look forward to worshiping with you on Sunday. We are beginning a short series called Praise Break. 

Shalom, 

Pastor Stacy

What I see Coming up:

Mission- Collecting bandaids for Coweta schools, also begin thinking about coats for this fall

August 9- Administrative council meeting after service

Sept. 4- First Friday Friends

Oct. - retirement of our flag