MESSAGE FROM PASTOR LANCE
June 30, 2025
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“For freedom Christ has set us free… If we live by the Spirit, let us also be guided by the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:1, 25)
Dear Church Family,
Join us for Sunday worship, as we continue our June sermon series Spirit Led with a message from Pastor Amanda titled “Led By the Spirit: Living a Life of Freedom and Purpose.” Drawing from Galatians 5, we’ll explore what it means to be shaped by the Spirit’s presence in our lives—not just in belief, but in our daily actions, relationships, and purpose.
Paul reminds us that the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These aren’t just traits to admire; they are signs of a life rooted in God’s freedom and guided by the Holy Spirit. As a church, we long to be a community where these fruits grow and flourish, bearing witness to the grace and goodness of Christ in all we do.
We’re especially proud of our youth, who just returned from a week-long mission trip in Lufkin! They served with open hearts and hands, living out the fruits of the Spirit as they worked, worshiped, and grew together. Join us in giving thanks for their leadership and energy, and for the adult mentors who helped guide the journey.
There are also exciting things on the horizon! Please be in prayer as we begin the recruiting process for the design team for a new modern worship service. Our hope is that this service will help us connect more deeply with the community around us and offer new pathways for people to experience the love and freedom of life in Christ. Please see below for more information.
We also lift prayers for Pastor Lindsay, who begins her ministry with First UMC this Tuesday, July 1. We are filled with hope and joy for this new season of leadership and look forward to the ways her gifts will bless our church.
And don’t forget—Vacation Camp is coming up July 21–25! We’re preparing for an incredible week of learning, fun, and growing in faith for children in our church and community. Please pray for our campers, volunteers, and leaders as the Spirit continues to guide every step.
Let us live freely. Let us walk boldly. Let us be led by the Spirit.
Peace, Love, and Joy,
Pastor Lance
Rev. Lance Richards
Senior Pastor
[email protected]