Pastor Garrett's Letter

I know I’m really going out on a limb here, but it seems like 2020 didn’t exactly turn out as planned. As we head into a new year, I’d like to note just two things moving forward:

First, while word on the street is the church’s future in America is bleak, the ministry of CLC is positioned to flourish in the years ahead. Your generosity in the past year was remarkable, and it has placed us on stable financial ground going forward. In addition, the challenges and changes of 2020 gave us the opportunity to rethink and renew our ways of doing ministry. As we return to a bit more normalcy in the coming year(s), I think what we’ll see is that 2020 shaped CLC to be even stronger than before.

Second, while 2020 didn’t turn out as we planned, not a single thing has been outside God’s plan. He himself is the one who has been shaping and equipping CLC for the future. In fact, I don’t doubt that he has been teaching us lessons that no other circumstances can teach, and giving us graces that will carry us forward in ways that are both faithful and fruitful. All of that is to say: He (still) makes all things work together for the good of those who love him. (Rom. 8:28) There is much to be excited about.

Later this year (post-Easter), I’ll be sharing where I believe the Spirit is leading us as a church. (Or, more specifically, where the Spirit is calling us to focus our efforts and invest our hearts.) In the meantime, please know how grateful I am to be called here. I think CLC is a special place, and I’m excited to see what God has in store for his church.  

Kristi and I are eager to get to know you better as we enter into this new year. We are praying for you and your family; please be praying for us and ours.

Peace in Christ,

Pastor Garrett