FROM THE LAY DIRECTOR "God's Faithful Hand In Every Season"

As we move through another change of seasons and transition into a new year, we are reminded that our God is a God of order, purpose, and perfect timing.  As I reflect upon my time serving as Lay Director over the past 3 years, one of my key takeaways is that God is always in control.  We often make plans with the best of intentions, mapping out what we believe is the right path forward. Yet time and again, God gently reminds us that His plans are higher and wiser than our own. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). Even when His direction looks different from what we expected, His way is always the best way.  

Just as seasons and years change, so do our roles and responsibilities.  As you’re probably aware, each year 4 of our Secretariat member positions cycle in and out. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to those who are stepping off the Secretariat. We are incredibly grateful for all the work Angie Wood, Bill Domina, and Lori Periard have done in their respective roles. Your faithfulness, wisdom, prayer, and dedication have helped guide our organization through important seasons, and your impact will be felt for years to come. I truly thank each of you for your personal sacrifices and cheerful hearts as you have faithfully fulfilled your roles.

At the same time, we warmly welcome those who are stepping into new roles of leadership on the Secretariat. Angie Wood will be moving into the Pre-Weekend Chair position, Brian Pickelman will fill the Lay Director role, Corey Gillespie will fill the Community Outreach Coordinator role, and Karen Huber will fill the Secretary position.  Thank you for your willingness to serve, to listen for God’s voice, and to lead with humility. We pray that God grants you all discernment and unity as you begin this new season of service. As Proverbs reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5–6).

We are blessed in the fact that God remains constant. He is constant through every transition of nature, through all our leadership changes, as well as in our own personal lives. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). My prayer is that we may continue to trust Him fully, even when the path ahead looks unclear and uncertain. As we step into the next season and year together as a community, let us do so with confidence, gratitude, and faith, knowing that God holds everything securely in His hands.

God Loves You & So Do I,

Jeff Walk, LVCCM Lay Director