A Year at Main Street
I have now been serving at Main Street for one year. A lot has happened in a year!
Parsonage Problems & Solutions
Right off the bat, we had some excitement with sewage problems at the parsonage. The trustees stepped up and got the problem fixed. You all also stepped up by donating funds and gift cards to help me and my family be comfortable during that time.
Just this past July, new flooring was installed throughout the first floor of the parsonage, replacing the old carpet. It was a lot of work for the trustees, but this is a great upgrade for us and for the church’s property.
Boiler Banished
Phase one for KUO to bring the kids into the building was the replacement of the boiler. The boiler was huge and inefficient. It had served the church well for many, many years, but it was time to go. Replacing it took a long time and was quite noisy, but it is reassuring to know that we will be toasty warm for many winters to come.
Renovation & Reimagining
KUO got to work in the building with their next phase, making everything ready for the UP kids. Lots of paint, new cameras, a new reception area, a lot of construction in the basement, and new door locks were added. Old classrooms became a tutoring room, a library, a game room, the clothing store, a conference room, and several offices. Beautiful murals are everywhere you look. Isn’t it amazing?
Inspired by KUO’s work in the building, we made some changes to the church offices. New flooring throughout, a new desk for Marcia, and a new table and chairs in the pastor’s office all brought a fresh, more contemporary look. Technology was also updated, with new computers for both Marcia and Marge.
Helping out by helping UP
I have been blown away by the response from this congregation to the call for help from KUO. Once the UP kids officially arrived in March, you all showed up! And you keep showing up, week after week. The clothing store is stocked, the food and toiletries store is stocked, kids are being tutored, and above all, kids are being shown a lot of love! All of this is a beautiful reflection of the love of Jesus.
If I had to sum up what I have seen this year in one word, it would be adaptability. So much has changed, and as a congregation, you have rolled with it! I am so proud to serve alongside you and represent you. The changes haven’t stopped yet, and there is a lot to be excited for in the next twelve months. Thank you for being a congregation that steps up and shows up, that demonstrates the grace, love, and generosity of Jesus Christ every single day.
Pastor Kate
