On Sunday, we will be welcoming, in worship, Pastor Joe Lees, Assistant to the Bishop for Vital Congregations, Vital Partnerships. Pastor Lees will be presiding at communion.

It has been a joy for me to work with Pastor Lees in a variety of contexts since he joined Bishop Lull’s staff three years ago. From his experience as a parish pastor in Ohio, he knows the value of cooperation between congregations to face challenges. Currently, he is working with congregations in the South Conference, of which St. James is a part. At one of those South Conference meetings, Pastor Lees indicated to me that he enjoys being invited to churches and likes to hear what other pastors in the Synod are preaching. I invited him to come and Preside at Table for his first official visit to worship at St. James. I also mentioned that we would be having him back to preach in the fall.

Following worship, Pastor Lees will be hosting an informational conversation over coffee about our ministry together as part of the St. Paul Area Synod.

I look forward to seeing you in worship on Sunday if you are in town. If not, perhaps I will see you at the Wednesday campfire communion worship next week. Blessings to you and your family during these pleasant days of opening summertime.

in Christ’s Light,

Pastor Walt