“…is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise!” (James 5:13)
If I could whistle, it would be one happy tune! I just arrived home from the Annual Meeting (on Sunday, January 25, 2015), and am so pumped up with enthusiasm that I can hardly sit still. If you attended the meeting, I hope you, too, felt the energy and excitement in the room as we reflected on last year’s accomplishments and anticipated the opportunities ahead for 2015. I’ve always felt St. James’ is a friendly and supportive community, but today I really believe God’s spirit was moving among us flashing (a neon sign) showing us the way.
So why are you reading this nearly five weeks after the meeting? I am, truly, writing it on Sunday afternoon, January 25th, but it won’t be printed until the March issue of the Window. I wanted to share the almost euphoric feelings I have before they calm down, so I’m writing my March article five weeks early.
What was it about the single service and the Annual Meeting?
- The slide show depicting the activities of 2014 reminded me of how really involved St. James’ is in our community;
- Listening to the various reports, I couldn’t be more proud of our parishioners who give their time, talent and treasure to make St. James’ the best it can be;
- Learning more about St. James’ financial condition gave me a feeling of anticipation and excitement for the future;
- It was so good to see St. James’ friends I don’t see often because of attending the 8 o’clock service;
- It was also enjoyable to meet new members and see them already fully engaged in the St. James’ community;
- And, I loved the Children’s Choir!
But mostly it was the love, compassion, and enthusiasm of the people of St. James’ who continue to carry out God’s work and mission in our community.
Thank you to everyone at St. James’ for all you do. Thank you for your pledges, your volunteerism, your caring and concern for each other and for the wider community, your friendship, your smiles, your prayers, and for being part of the St. James’ family.
Gail Blalock, Stewardship Chair