Embracing Blessings and Community

Dear First Pres SLO Family,

Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus the Messiah, the one who loved those who felt unlovable, and kept company with those who felt unworthy of his presence.

In times of crisis it’s easy to forget the many blessings God has shared with us. Being a part of a community where we’re loved and supported—that’s a beautiful thing. Being challenged to grow in faith and reach out in service—that’s a gift.

It’s good to be a part of a church—to be the Body of Christ together in this city and through the ministries we support around the world.

As we look ahead to the holiday season, to Thanksgiving and Advent and Christmas, let me encourage each of you to take the time to reflect on the ways we give and receive the blessings of God together. In the rush of shopping and cooking and shopping some more, pause to remember just how much God loves you and the lengths Jesus went to to demonstrate that love.

These are such challenging times. So much crowds our minds and hearts and pushes our awareness of God to the margins. The task for us is to keep God in the center, without losing our connection to the world of neighbors out there. 

May God bless you and yours with a deep sense of thankfulness, of expectation, and of true joy—the gifts of Thanksgiving, of Advent, and of the Christmas season. 

Blessings to you,

Pastor John

PS: We continue to journey together through this Stewardship Season. We’ll dedicate our pledges on November 23rd, Christ the King Sunday. Until then, please pray and reflect about your own partnership with the ministries of this church in 2026!