What a wonderful experience we had at our Mid-Winter Institute! Several churches sent people here to attend as well as others who joined us online from around the Susquehanna Conference for both Saturday and Sunday’s learning opportunities. Check out the pictures on the following pages… Very soon, recordings of the workshops and the Keynote Address will be available online. I personally want to thank our presenters and our staff, as well as pastors from our cluster who helped make this one of our best experiences.
Why not save the dates for next year’s event now? I can only imagine what would happen to our church’s mission if a majority of members attended these learning opportunities! Next year’s Institute will be held on February 7th and 8th, 2026.
By now, most of you have heard that I have reached the age of mandatory retirement and will officially retire on June 30, 2025. I am not excited to leave full time ministry as I have a profound calling from God that has motivated me for what will be 50 years in June. I know that God will continue to use me in one way or another in the coming years. I can, however, thank God that I have been able to serve God and you while here at Elm Park. I love you all for all you are and all you do!
The District Superintendent has already met with our Staff Parish Relations Committee who spent time developing a pastoral profile indicating the kind of gifts we would like in our next pastor. The Bishop and Cabinet will take that request seriously and prayerfully and spend time in prayer to identify the very best pastoral leadership for the years ahead. The announcement will be coming in the next few weeks as the Cabinet and Bishop work on appointments. When the appointment is announced, you will be the first to know.
In Trustee News, I am so excited to tell you about the replacement of our gym floor after many years of needed repairs. You will find a picture in this edition showing the beginning of the work to restore what should become a vital ministry reaching out to those who wish to enjoy the facility.
Our slate roof has had its semi – annual repair. This included shingle replacement where needed on the church and parsonage and gutter repair and maintenance.
We have hired a second custodian! His name is Cameron Sacco. He is doing a terrific job carrying out his responsibilities. Please say hello to him when you come into the building Monday through Friday.
Finally, we will be studying another book written by Adam Hamilton for our Lenten Study beginning on March 4th at 7:00pm. The Title of the book and the class will be The Message of Jesus… Words That Changed the World!” Please plan to join us.
That’s only a brief sampling of some of what is happening here at Elm Park UMC.
Thanks for your continued prayers and support of our work together!
Until next time...
Rev. Mike Bealla