Baptism: An Every Day Occurrence

Pastor Nate Widener • January 13, 2025

Baptism: An Every Day Occurrence by Pastor Nate

Happy New Year!


Indeed, it is 2025 and it already feels like it’s been a long one, doesn’t it? With all the snow and ice, the Pastoral Ministry Staff hopes you’ve been able to snuggle up next to the fire and enjoy some warm beverages with friends and family.


Turning toward the upcoming year, however, we note that it’s going to be an exciting one! As St. Peter’s Lutheran Church and School enters its 170th year of operation, we are glad to see our ministry continue to thrive. May God grant us just as many years in the future in order to spread the love of Jesus Christ.


One thing that continues to define our Church, as we face this coming year, is our clear and strong identity in Jesus Christ through Word and Sacrament ministry. As we discussed this weekend, God tells us through His prophet Isaiah, “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine,” and this is most certainly true.


We have been rooted in Christ, marked by Him and made to be one of His brothers and sisters through His sacrifice on the Cross. Indeed, the Holy Spirit lives within each one of us, and because this is true, we need not be too concerned about the coming year. Regardless of what we face, God is with us, and in us, and promises to guide us. 


Our sermon text from the past weekend reminds us that it doesn’t matter whether we pass through raging waters or roaring fires, God will not only protect us, He will also provide for us in the form of eternal life. This is how awesome our God is and it is His love that inspires us to look forward to the coming year and to put our trust in Him.


So, this year, may God provide you with peace, safety and certainty, but when difficult circumstances threaten to overwhelm you, remember that the God who created the universe also created you. You are, as God says through Isaiah, “Precious in my eyes, and honored, and I love you.” 


Let these words guide you this year and may God continue to watch over St. Peter’s Lutheran Church and School until His glorious and inevitable return! 


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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I hope this note finds you well and encouraged in the Lord. St. Peter’s continues to be a place where God is at work through our preschool, school, various ministries, and the daily faithfulness of His people. I am grateful to serve the Lord with you in this place! As we continue to serve together, I want to update you on changes in our church office and ministry staff. As many of you know, Michelle Leahy has been serving as our “Interim Director of Operations,” providing support and coordination across many areas of congregational life. In the coming weeks, Michelle will be stepping into a new role, “Executive Director.” This means her work will shift from hands-on ministry support to more administrative leadership and oversight of the church office, properties, finances, and technology. This is an important step for us as a congregation as we continue to support our staff and serve our members. With this change, we want to ensure that daily ministry needs are met. After reviewing our current staffing and budget, we can make an adjustment that supports the ongoing ministry without increasing costs. To that end, Kami Jo Mogelvang will expand her role to serve as “Church Ministry Coordinator.” Many of you have already seen Kami Jo assisting Pastor McDowell in youth ministry two days each week. Under the new alignment, she will: Continue serving in youth ministry, and Help coordinate ministry efforts and volunteer connections with Pastor Nate and Pastor McDowell across the congregation. This will help us strengthen volunteer support and the many “connecting points” that help our church family care for one another. As Kami Jo transitions out of her receptionist duties, this change will open about 18 hours per week at the front desk, which we have posted. This staffing arrangement stays within our approved 2025 budget. I am thankful for Michelle, Kami Jo, our staff, and all our volunteers. I also appreciate the spirit of grace and partnership that marks our congregation. Please keep our staff and ministry leaders in your prayers as we move through these transitions. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. Thank you for the privilege of serving Christ with you! In Christ, Pastor Danny Eggold St. Peter’s Lutheran Church & School
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