Greetings from the Pastor

Dear Beloved Members, As we step into the year 2025, I greet you with joy, hope, and anticipation for what God has in store for us. This year, we embark on a journey together under the theme, “Rooted in Virtue: A Year of Spiritual Practice.” Guided by the life-giving words of Jeremiah 17:7-8 (NASB), we are reminded:

"Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose trust is the Lord. For he will be like a tree planted by the water, that extends its roots by a stream and will not fear when the heat comes; but its leaves will be green, and it will not be anxious in a year of drought, nor cease to yield fruit."

This theme challenges us to go beyond simply understanding the virtues we studied last year. Now, we are called to be deeply rooted in these same virtues—allowing them to shape our hearts, guide our decisions, and strengthen our relationships. Just as a tree flourishes when its roots are planted near streams of living water, we too will thrive when we are anchored in God’s truth and empowered by His Spirit.

This year, we will focus on twelve virtues that serve as the foundation of a Christ-centered life: love, patience, kindness, humility, compassion, forgiveness, faithfulness, joy, gentleness, peace, self-control, and gratitude. Each month, we will explore one of these virtues in depth, seeking to apply it in practical ways and grow into the people God has called us to be.

As your pastor, I am excited to journey alongside you in this season of growth. Together, we will learn what it means to go deep, grow deep, and stay rooted in the spiritual practices that nourish our souls and glorify God. May this be a year of transformation, resilience, and abundant fruit as we trust in the Lord and extend our roots into His boundless grace. With love and anticipation,

In Christ, Pastor Samuel Bailey Wilson, III