MESSAGE FROM RICKY

Hey Friends,

We have had a fun start to our fall programs here at First Clinton! Wednesday Nights are back, Sunday School classes are growing, Youth United Night has resumed, and there are bible studies almost every day of the week! I hope you find a place to plug in and grow! 

While I’ve got you, I wanted to give you a brief personal update. A few months ago, I shared the news that I have accepted a commission in the U.S. Navy as a Reserve Chaplain. This was a call in my life that I have pushed to the back burner for many years. But, in the end, you often cannot outrun God. As a reserve chaplain I serve part-time, typically one Saturday a month, a few Sundays a year, and then a two week annual deployment. Additionally, as a new chaplain, there are a few extended schools I am required to attend early in my career. 

One of those schools is Officer Development School this September in Newport, Rhode Island. This is basically “officer boot camp.” I’ll be away for 35 days to be fully immersed in the life and culture of the Navy. There’s lots of running, jumping, swimming, firefighting, and marching. Pray for my 40-year-old knees!

I’m grateful to our church Staff Parish Relations Committee, our District Superintendent, and our Bishop who have been so supportive of me, allowing me to answer this call, while continuing to serve you. 

While I’m away, you’ll be well cared for by our pastors (Katie, Erin, and Dave), our staff, and our great lay volunteers. 

 This Sunday I’ll be in the pulpit to wrap up our current sermon series and then I’ll be shipping out the following weekend. 

I will miss you, but I look forward to returning September 30 with a little less weight, a little less hair, and ready to get back to work with you all!

Anchors Aweigh,

Ricky 

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