And I, when I came to you, brothers, did not come proclaiming to you the testimony of God with lofty speech or wisdom. For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness and in fear and much trembling, and my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God. ~ 1 Corinthians 2:1–5
We’ve been in Cedar Falls for just over two weeks now, and we’ve been very pleased with the transition. The members of our congregations—Our Redeemer in Cedar Falls and Peace in Shell Rock—have been fantastic! They helped us move in, have provided food and gifts, have offered to help with the house and watching the boys, and have been just plain delightful to be around. Other than our seminary friends, I don’t know that we’ve ever felt as connected to a group of people so quickly.
My list of responsibilities at church is rapidly mounting, but I’m excited for all of it. My supervisor, Pastor Knox, had me assisting with the Divine Service from the day I was installed, and this past weekend I preached my first sermon here. (You can find a recording on Our Redeemer’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/theforgivenessplace.) I’ve made some shut-in visits, led a study on the weekly propers (Scripture readings, hymns, prayers, etc.), am preparing for a Bible study I’ll start teaching next month, and the list goes on. I already know I’ll conclude my vicarage amazed at what I’ve learned and wanting more.
We’re beginning to get acquainted with the area and others outside the church as well. We’ve been to the library, visited a few parks and a couple museums, checked out some of the bike trails, and Pamela and the boys are attending weekly playdates with local CC families. Logan and Camden made some new friends almost instantly and have enjoyed having the church parking lot available for biking, skating, basketball, and driving a friend’s remote controlled vehicles. Brighton also likes using the parking lot to push his Cozy Coupe or pull a wagon around.
Thanks to everyone who’s communicated with us, wishing us well on this step of the seminary process. Even as our group of supporters increases with the addition of two more congregations, our appreciation for those of you who have been following us since the beginning doesn't diminish. We love you all!
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