Dear Friends,
I was chosen as your pastor just about six months ago. Here’s what I love about FPC and Woodburn. You have chosen a great team for me to work with on Session. There is Johanna with her love of Jesus that started as a young girl; Nancy with her love of the Captain of land and sea. Julie who keeps us on track as Clerk, and who makes the city budget add up; there is kind-hearted Bill, who is quick with an encouraging word; Marcy who makes sure we remember the kids of the community with school supplies; Joanne who’s studies the prayer life of Hildegarde; Sally guides me in things that are worship and more; Mark and Walt, you are my go-to-guys when it comes to questions about the grounds or equipment. I cherish each one.
In the office, I have Laura, as secretary, who is my right hand. I learn each week from her wisdom and skill. My Wednesday is a high point in the week when I get to see Fran and Roberta in the office. It’s great to check in with them on what’s going on. Music Director Debi brings such expertise in liturgy, or playing piano and organ. The gorgeous sound of a pipe played well takes my breath away. The choir, giving of their time and expressing their love of God in music, adds such a beautiful touch to every worship service. I look forward to the fall when they will be back. In the meantime, the summer singers, with such a wide variety of talent and taste in music, are blessing us. We have it all. Our sound tech Gene keeps us in listening range. In recording sermons each Sunday, he helps me get the message to those who cannot get to church. Thank you for driving our bus also. I have such great people with which to work.
You, members of the congregation, are trusted friends. Sisters, Christine and Evelyn, I have chided you too many times about not sitting with each other in worship. Betty, I use you to make sure our sound equipment is working well enough (“Can you hear me now”). I get my first greeting of each Sunday from Charlie. (Some say, “He can’t hear.” But I don’t believe it.) Ruby, you have introduced me to your entire family in picture. Phila, I want to thank you for keeping our library in perfect order. Hope, you are well named. Precious Lois, it is so gooood to have you back in church! Evelyn and Irene, thank you for noticing that I smile a lot. It is because I’m happy! David, you have dry sense of humor that is such fun. Mark, I need to thank you for your many encouraging words and strong handshakes. Harley and Marian, I’m glad this is your church and that I am your pastor. Traudel, you are a treasure and you remind me of my German heritage. Kelvin and Sarah, I will try to make every message worth living. For our younger generation, Hillary, Hannah, April, McKenzie and Zach, you stretch me to be relevant. Thank you for your warm welcome.
I’m sure I have unintentionally forgotten some. It is so good for Diana and me to be here with you in beautiful Woodburn.
Warmly,
Pastor Peter
Pastor Peter J. Blank
August newsletter: aug 2015 pdf