Summer always seems to slip through our fingers too quickly. One minute we’re grilling in the backyard, heading to the beach, and enjoying long evenings, and the next—ready or not—it’s fall. But fall has a pace of its own. If you’re like me, once Labor Day is behind us, it feels like we’re on a fast track straight to Christmas.
But before the whirlwind truly begins, I want to pause and share a quick look at what’s ahead.
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Kick-Off Weekend
We love starting the fall strong with Kick-Off Weekend. Think of it as our way of saying, “We’re back!” after the slower pace of summer. It’s a chance for our whole parish family to come together, reconnect, and look forward to the year ahead. If you’re new, Kick-Off Weekend is a great time to jump in.
This year there was plenty of energy, excitement, and a number of opportunities to get involved. Thanks to all who participated.
Rebuilt Podcasts
Life moves quickly in the fall, and it’s easy to get swept up in work, school, and sports schedules. That’s why we love our Rebuilt Podcasts. They’re short, practical, and easy to fit into your daily routine—whether you’re listening during your commute, walking the dog, or making dinner.
Each episode is designed to encourage you, challenge you, and give you something you can put into practice right away. It’s one more way we’re trying to stay connected and help you grow in your faith, even in the middle of busy weeks.
Fall Message Series
I preach in message “series” tackling real-life questions with timeless biblical wisdom. What I love about our series is that they’re not just about “information.” They’re about transformation—helping us take the next step in our relationship with Christ.
This fall brings three series. The first takes a look at the larger purpose God has in mind for our lives, especially through Christian service. A second series will focus on blessing: how to recognize them, use them, and be grateful for them. A third series will take us through Advent and help parishioners prepare for Christmas.
Stewardship Weekend
Stewardship isn’t just about giving—it’s about living… living with an open heart.
Every year, Stewardship Weekend is our chance to remember how much God has given us and to ask how we can give back. It’s always one of the most inspiring weekends of the year. We hear stories of how giving changes lives, both inside our parish and far beyond. And every time, I’m reminded that when we give, God multiplies it.
Advent
By the time Advent rolls around, most of us are already in Christmas mode—shopping, planning, wrapping, decorating. But Advent calls us to something different. It’s an invitation to slow down, to prepare our hearts, and to remember what we’re really waiting for.
Week by week, we’ll gather in worship to hear again from God’s Word of the marvelous plan of Christ’s coming. Above all, it will be a time of hope and everything we offer during this season, the music, the message, the outdoor light display, is meant to inspire hope.
Christmas at the Cow Palace
And then comes the big night: Christmas at the Cow Palace. Every year, it’s one of the most meaningful and joyful experiences we share together as a parish. Thousands of people from all over gather to hear the Christmas story, sing carols, and celebrate the birth of Jesus in a setting that feels both grand and deeply personal. The Eucharistic celebration itself is actually deeply inspiring and the candle lighting service to conclude, a deeply moving Christmas tradition.
For many, this is a powerful new encounter with Christ. That’s why Christmas at the Cow Palace matters so much—it’s not just an event, it’s a mission.
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Fall is fast. Fall is full. And before we know it, it’ll be Christmas. But along the way, there are so many opportunities to grow in faith, to serve, to invite, and to celebrate.
I’m excited about what’s ahead, and I hope you’ll join us for this journey, here on our Ridgely Road campus or on line. This season is going to be beautiful. Let’s enjoy it together.
