Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
I am excited by all of the positive steps that are being taken to strengthen the congregation here at Blessed Savior. My Sunday morning Bible study has seen steady attendance. There is still room for more, so if you are interested in a Bible study that is new every week, then my office at 9:15 on Sunday mornings is the place to be. My evangelism project is progressing rather well. I want to thank all of you who signed up for name badges; the response to this part of my project has been wonderful. (We have ordered over 130 name badges) It is important that we all do our best to remember to wear them every weekend so others can learn our names. The new visitor tri-fold brochure is done and more than a half dozen visitors have taken one already. These can be found in the entry way of the church if you would like to look at them. I ask that you don’t take them home unless you are planning on giving them to prospective visitors. The next part of my project that I am focusing on is the welcome center. I am looking for the help of a carpenter or cabinet maker. If you know of anyone with these talents and that would be willing to help with this project please call the church office @ 831-1300.
Another positive step was taken last month when the voters decided to call a vicar for 2008-2009. This provides an important service for the seminary because there are students who need to stay in the St. Louis area for various reasons. Our reasons for needing to stay locally was so our children would not have to change high schools, and we are so grateful for the opportunity to serve here at Blessed Savior. The vicarage program is also a vital component of the ministry team here at Blessed Savior. Most of the vicars that you have had here were second career men who served more like associate pastors than vicars. Vicars can take some of the workload from the pastor which frees up the pastor to do other tasks. These tasks have included working on one’s personal health, being able to spend time away from the church in order to be reenergized, and freeing up time to do more individual counseling. The vicarage program is such a blessing for both the seminary and Blessed Savior.
Other positive steps that are currently being pursued include “Fellowship Fridays” which will occur in the warmer months, small group Bible studies to be held in the homes of members, a spring meeting to develop a vision for the church and strategic planning around that vision, and the desire to have various groups and boards working together on projects and events.
It is my sincere wish that the joy of the Easter season would last all year long and spur you to get involved in your church. Opportunities abound in MOBS, LiGHTS, Helping Hands and various church boards.
God Bless,
Vicar Schultz
