Dear First Parish Church,

Grace and peace to you as we step into a brand-new year together! January always brings with it a sense of fresh beginnings—new calendars, new opportunities, and renewed hope. As people of faith, we trust that God is already present in this year ahead, calling us forward with love, courage, and compassion.

The words of the prophet Isaiah remind us, “See, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” As we enter this new year, may we open our hearts to the “new things” God is stirring among us—new ways to serve, new relationships to nurture, and new possibilities for justice, healing, and joy.

Coming up in worship we will move through the season of Epiphany marking important milestones in Jesus’ life and ministry: his baptism, the calling of the first disciples, the Sermon on the Mount, and the Transfiguration. Rev. Lelly Smith will preach for us on Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend (1/18) and you won’t want to miss it.

This year, may we continue to be a church that welcomes all, loves boldly, and acts faithfully in the world. Whether through worship, service, learning, or fellowship, each of us has a vital role to play in living out Christ’s call. I am excited about where the Spirit is leading us and deeply grateful to walk this journey with you.

With gratitude and joy,

Rev. Katherine