On these long, unusually but comfortably cool, summer days, with the doors and windows at the
church open to the fresh air, I began to think of how much has changed at our church in the last
5 years or so, and how much continues to change. When I open the new windows in the
Sanctuary and Social Hall to help with the circulation of air, I remember the discussions we had
during the pandemic, with masks worn, on whether to include windows that open. On these
days when the fresh, lake air blows through the building, I’m glad we decided to go ahead with
opening windows.

It was shared by somebody visiting the church for the first time that the interesting facade is
what drew them in. Before too long, there will also be the signage to even more clearly
demarcate what the building is. The Exterior Decorations Committee will soon have a report for
us about the results of the survey. As to the interior decorations, some more time will be taken
to discuss things like the potential placement of a sculpture, and a suggestion of where the
lettering for Spirit of Life ought to go. Luckily, there is no rush for any of these decisions, and as
always, I encourage that we take the time to include all those wanting to participate in the
discussions.

The technology continues to continually change and be improved upon throughout the building.
The Building and Grounds committee has completed the work of hardwiring both the Sanctuary
and the Social Hall, and now rather than a mess of cords and teetering stacks of equipment, a
nice cabinet and conduit contain the elements for our connectivity. Although every time I go to
turn on the computer for a Zoom committee meeting, I’m still fretful.

Improvements also continue in the foyer, as we wait for the installation of the tile. This originally
was not part of the renovation plans, but was rather decided as a solution to the foyer floor
problem that arose. So, with that work, we enter the phase of maintenance. As problems and
breakages arise, like the leaky roof that was discovered, we will find the best way to fix them
with the resources we have. (The leaky roof was fixed.)

In all of these major changes in the building and technology at the church, one thing that always
encourages me is how we make sure to look after one another in the subtle changes in all our
lives. Being here for one another is the essential purpose of a church. Especially when things
become difficult for somebody due to aging or illness, it is good to know that there will be
somebody to offer a ride, help walk the dog, or bring something over to be warmed up. I hope
and encourage we stay attuned to one another in perceiving need, and in offering and asking for
help. When I think about the amount of change we’ve been through in these years, I am grateful
for that best part of our church that has stayed the same.