Looking Ahead Together

Several good things happen in October. October 2 marks the 85th anniversary of the first Lutheran Hour broadcast. October 11 is Columbus Day. LWML Sunday was celebrated on October 12. And, of course, on October 31, we commemorate Reformation Day—although children especially may think of October 31 as Halloween.

This year, October also marks the beginning of something significant for St. Peter’s Lutheran Church & School. For the first time in a few years, our congregation will enter a strategic planning process.

This process is a chance to pause and listen: listen to God’s Word, to one another, and to our entire St. Peter’s community so that we can discern how best to serve Christ in the years ahead.

Beginning this month, our Leadership Team—including pastors, the principal, the preschool director, the Interim Director of Operations, and the Music Director—will begin the first phase of the process. We will publish a simple roadmap for the congregation, develop a survey, and prepare opportunities for your participation.

In the months to come, our Leadership Team will begin laying the groundwork for this effort. We’ll share an overview of the process, seek input from across the congregation and school, and open opportunities for everyone to take part. The goal is to gather a wide range of perspectives that help us understand where we are strong, where we might grow, and where God may be leading us next.

There will be chances for every member and family to get involved—through a simple survey, conversations, and open forums. Later, as we listen and reflect on what we’ve heard, we’ll begin shaping the priorities and goals that will guide our shared ministry for years to come.

You can be involved in this planning process by:

1. Praying for wisdom, unity, and clarity throughout the process.
2. Take part in the survey when it launches.
3. Joining a listening forum in November or January.
4. Encouraging others to participate and share their perspective.

This is a special opportunity for St. Peter’s to reflect on who we are, what God has given us, and where He is leading us. Together, we can build on our strong faith and plan for a faithful future!