My reflections this month may not seem profoundly theological—unless you include gratitude as something profoundly theological (and I do). And at this time I wish to express my gratitude to God for those folks who have given their time and talent during this season of activity around the church.
As is the case for many of our homes, summertime is also a time of increased maintenance for church’s buildings and grounds, as well. Not only are there “inside” things that need to be done, but there are a whole host of “outside” things that need to be tended to. I want to lift up our Consistory’s Property Committee—Kathy Zimmermann, Jeff Bender and Kymn Schicker—for their oversight on these matters. And aiding them in those maintenance tasks is a faithful core of individuals who have lent their energies and skills to various tasks around the church.
I want to take a moment, to publicly acknowledge this group of folks. Now, I did my homework and tried to include everyone to whom credit is due—but, unfortunately, I may inadvertently miss someone. I apologize for that, ahead of time. No omissions are intended.
So here’s a list of the folks who have helped out with various tasks. Helping with grass cutting have been Gene Boll, Tom Melger, Ken Schaap, and Richard Groene. Evan Sukowaty, Richard Groene, and Tom & Carol Fischer Melger have worked on spreading mulch. Evie Ketsch and Janice Bunyea have tended the weeding. The reconfiguration of the electrical service box at the far end of the Christian Education wing has been undertaken by Ed Ardell, with the help of Gene Boll and Darla Ardell. Scott Bunyea has completed the wiring for the new WiFi stations around the church.
Again, I say, I may have inadvertently omitted a name or a set of tasks—and I apologize ahead of time if that was the case—but I wanted to acknowledge the jobs that were done during this time of increased need and the people who helped do them. Whether it’s these tasks, or other tasks that continue to happen all year round, we have a dedicated group of people at Salem who care about the church. I give thanks to God for all that you do.
Your servant in Christ,
Rev. Jim Hoppert
