I can’t believe it’s November already! We’re well into the school year, and the holidays are just around the corner. We’ve had a lot going on this fall, and as we continue through the year, the opportunities to help out, make connections, and be a community of faith continue as well.

All of the church committees have ways to engage or events to attend at LCOR. I mentioned some of them back in August as we were looking forward to the fall season, but it’s time to revisit the work that’s being done by these groups as the year progresses. This congregation really does have a lot happening, and I encourage you to read through the rest of the newsletter for all of the events and details.

The Stewardship Committee works to remind us that living faithfully happens every day. Last week, they spoke about having an “Attitude of Gratitude” towards all we have and all we get to do each day. As they finish up their Stewardship Series, they’ll be focusing on financial stewardship as well as stewardship of time and interests, highlighting the church committees as a way for everyone to learn more about what’s going on and how they can participate.

The work of the Worship and Music Committee is probably easiest to see as they plan and coordinate the worship services. From organizing volunteers for Sunday morning to planning special services like the Blessing of the Animals, they make sure that LCOR has worship services that run smoothly and are grounded in theology and faith.

The Social Ministry Committee, Community Life, and Christian Education Programs almost always have something going on. In addition to ongoing concerns like collecting donations for local Food Pantries, the Social Ministry Committee has a special project, outreach, or collection almost every month. For example, this month they’re coordinating and serving a meal at Food’n’Friends. Community Life has continued their monthly “Eat-Out-After-Church” event, and added some trips, dinners, and gatherings for people to connect with the church community and enjoy time together. Sunday School and Adult Education coordinators have been putting together engaging and thoughtful lessons that spark questions and conversations.

The Finance Committee has a big role in making sure things keep going well, too. They track the budget for the year and work to communicate the financial situation as well as any recommendations to the council and congregation. This year, they are adding an informational session prior to the annual meeting. I encourage you to check that out on November 10.

The Building and Grounds committee takes care of coordinating needed repairs as well as lawn and building maintenance and the semi-annual clean up days. Many hands make light work, and all work contributes to the whole project as we saw with the fall clean up day on October 26. The ORCCC Board ensures good communication and organization between LCOR and the Daycare here, so that both work well on their own and with each other.

This article has been highlighting the committees at LCOR, but it would be a mistake not to mention the staff here as well. Our music directors, office administrator, and custodian work together to ensure everything runs smoothly and all of those little details are taken care of. From having an accurate bulletin to a clean building to meaningful and faithful worship music to this very newsletter, the staff plans, practices, and coordinates across committees and programs with efficiency, understanding, and grace.

I’m thankful for all the people that work to add so much to the community of faith here at LCOR. I hope you get the chance to talk with the committee members and staff at some point, and maybe ask what they have coming up or how you can engage or help out with these programs and events. The extra opportunities we get to enjoy each year would not be possible without their work and everyone’s participation.