Both Sides By Rev. Nina D. Grey August, 2004

While some take a summer break from church, the need for the community and its ministries remains strong. We are grateful for the so many who participate in our congregation's ongoing life in July and August.

Our ministers take some vacation during the summer, with Rev. Millie Rochester being on vacation the month of July, and I am on vacation from mid-July through mid-August. I will preach next on August 22 and Rev. Millie on August 29. Guest ministers, Meadville Lombard students, lay leaders and others mostly lead our summer worship services, organized by the Worship and Music Committee.

Our Religious Education provides a nursery and a staffed, modified gathering for older children, outside when possible. There are First Forum programs, the Life Journeys class meets twice in the summer, the Religious Education Council, Adult Education Committee, and Small Group Ministry Planning Group meet, and so does the New Men's Group. Our 911 Study Group continues to study and respond to the world's economic and political realities. They meet on the evening of the first Sunday of each month. Among the things the Environmental Task Force are already discussing are plans for how to mark Earth Sunday next April.

Polly McCoo and Madeiria Myrieckes, as chairs of the Caring Committee, help our community supplement the pastoral ministries of the ministers and those providing coverage for our ministers on vacation.

At its July 22 meeting the Board of Trustees will have considered the recommendation of the Music Search Committee for a new Music Director. Our new Church President and President-elect attended Leadership School. The Board is planning a Leadership and Board retreat for September 3 and 4. Linn Orear, who is coming on as a co-treasurer, is learning a great deal from Julie Neumann who has so ably and faithfully carried on the work of treasurer for several years.

These are just a few of the ways that members of our congregation help carry forward our ministries during the summer months. Please take a moment to be aware of the very meaningful contributions they and so many others make.

For part of my summer vacation, (July 21 through August 17) I will put some energy into campaigns of candidates whom I support for election in November. I will also spend time with family and friends, and in some relaxation, like walking, swimming, playing and hearing music, movies and reading. I'll be in Maine with my daughter and granddaughter, from July 31 to August 7, and in New York with them the following week. During my vacation, the Revs. Millie Rochester, David Arksey, Ann Marie and Don Coleman, and Jim Hobart will provide some emergency pastoral care.

With love, in faith,

Nina