Hunter Park Cleanup
It’s been a while since I last connected with you through this blog, and I’m so glad to write again. Over the past two months, as I’ve transitioned full-time at Faith, I’ve had the joy of getting to know many of you more deeply. From greeting you after worship, to exploring the book of Romans with 11 members in our Wednesday night Disciple Bible Study, to sharing meals with more than 40 members at Lunch Bunch—each of these moments has been a gift from God.
Last week’s Lunch Bunch at our Bixby campus was especially meaningful, with more than 50 members gathered—including many of our Bixby launch members. For some, it was their very first visit to the building, and I heard comments like, “Wow! What a beautiful church!” But I still remember my own first visit, thinking, “Wow… we’ve got a lot of work ahead.” And yet, thanks to your dedication, this building has truly been transformed into a church. In just the past two weeks, we’ve seen fresh paint on the walls, a new kitchen countertop installed, deep cleaning, and a sanctuary TV and wiring system set up. Every small act of service is helping to build this new campus.
We are now entering the final stage of preparation for our November launch. On Saturday, October 11, we’ll hold another Bixby Work Day to complete the last round of projects before launch. Please check your calendars and join us if you can—an announcement will be coming soon!
Last Wednesday, we also gathered at Hunter Park for a trash pickup mission. Honestly, I was worried when I walked the park earlier in the week and thought, “There isn’t much trash—people might be disappointed.” But I had nothing to worry about. You shared fellowship over hot dogs from the food truck, then joyfully spread out—not only picking up trash, but also pulling weeds, clearing fallen branches, and even retrieving debris from the pond. I had brought five large trash bags, hoping we could fill two. Instead, we filled all five and had to use several of the park’s bins as well!
Watching you that day reminded me once again: a strong community is not built by great leaders, but by the faithful participation of many members. The mission team can make the best plans, but the results depend on how people respond. And when you respond, we truly live out our calling of Christ-centered service together. I am grateful for Pastor Heather’s passion and leadership, but it is your participation that brings her leadership to life and bears fruit.
Through this, we live Christ-centered lives, experiencing His grace and sharing it with others. And when that grace shines in our lives, our families and neighbors also come to share in it. I am grateful to be part of this with you. It is my joy to walk this journey alongside you, giving thanks to God and continually praying for you.
