Dear Lynnwood Community,

Two lines from scripture keep running through my mind. Both are from the pivotal moment in Israel’s life when slavery in Egypt is in the rear view mirror and the Israelites are braving the exciting but terrifying landscape of the wilderness. As they navigate an uncertain future God speaks to them words of promise. One promise God makes is, “I will be your God and you will be my people” and the second is, "these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children.” 

 

As you read this perhaps you feel you are at a moment, like the Israelites, where you are facing uncertain times. Perhaps you are looking for encouragement and words of comfort that might help direct you. Believe me, you are not alone. As a community of faith we face a challenging landscape as well and long for encouragement. 

 

Which brings me back to those two promises from God, “I will be your God and you will be my people” and “these words I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children.” These words are a reminder that God claims you and me and us. A reminder that we need this community of faith so that together we can write these promises of God on our hearts. And a reminder that we need to teach these promises to everyone who does not know them–our children, our friends, our neighbors, and all those who have never stepped foot in a church before. 

 

The ministry of the Lynnwood church community is needed more than ever! Thanks to the generous support of you and our community we have done some awesome things to deepen our community’s ability to learn about the promises of God while also finding creative ways to reach out more broadly with the message of God’s loving promises. Highlights include: 

 

  • Ongoing upgrades to the sanctuary, such as the new digital audio mixing console and enhanced lighting, which have greatly improved both in-person and live-streamed worship experiences. A special mention goes to the new Steeple Lighting, which not only brightens our physical space but symbolizes the light of faith in our community.
  • Our commitment to outreach has continued to expand. From donations to the Caring Closet supporting Guilderland Central School District families to our ongoing partnership with the Guilderland Food Pantry, Lynnwood has supported essential local organizations. We supported and coordinated initiatives related to refugee crisis care. Additionally, we’ve deepened our service with the City Mission by re-establishing meal-serving opportunities, allowing our congregation to connect directly with those in need in Schenectady. 
  • We launched small groups based on congregant feedback to offer spaces for shared interests and faith development. Our Youth Group, which meets regularly and participates in service projects, has become a vibrant part of Lynnwood’s life. 
  • This fall, we also hosted our annual Fall Festival, a well-attended celebration featuring food trucks, live music, and family-friendly activities. Our upcoming retreat at Camp Fowler promises even more opportunities to deepen our fellowship and connection to God’s creation.

 

As we move into 2025, we have the opportunity to build upon the good work that is being done! Here are some initiatives we are looking forward to:

 

  • Continuing to find ways to deepen and widen our worship so that LRC community members and people who don’t attend church can experience the presence of the living God. 
  • Growing our small group offerings to foster connection and spiritual growth.

 

  • Continuing our partnerships with local missions and organizations, but embracing new partnerships that make a meaningful impact in our local communities.
  • Engaging more volunteers to support our youth, music, and outreach ministries.
  • Coordinating fellowship opportunities that engage young families outside our congregation.

 

Your partnership is essential to making these goals a reality! We invite you to prayerfully consider a financial pledge to support Lynnwood’s ministry. To do so, you can complete the enclosed yellow pledge card and return it in the collection plate, by mail, or submit your commitment online at lynnwoodreformed.org/pages/pledge-card. For those interested in establishing online giving, please reach out to Andy Pris at deacons@lynnwoodreformed.org.

 

We will celebrate our stewardship commitments on Sunday, November 24, 2024, during our Dedication Service. Your support—whether financial or through your time and talents—ensures that Lynnwood remains a beacon of faith, love, and service for our community.

 

Thank you for your prayerful consideration and your support in sustaining and expanding Lynnwood’s ministry.

 

With gratitude,

 

Pastor Garret and the Stewardship Team