Cliff's Notes

This is my first pastor's column in the new year and as I write this column it is with a grateful heart. Grateful because I have sensed Gods unfailing presence during a year of change for us here at Zion. At the beginning of last year change was in the wind. Becky Holten shared with us that God was calling her to a change in her ministry. She didn't know what that would be but trusted God would open the doors for her. Gods place soon became evident to her as she accepted the position as the Dakota's Conference Director of Youth and Camping Ministry. In the many conversations I've had with Becky in the past year it is evident God has blessed her and our Conference with her leadership.

How would we deal with that change? What a joy it was to see Zion members accept the challenge. Over the past many months so many of you have stepped up to take leadership roles or to volunteer your time in any way necessary to strengthen Zion. What a blessing that has been. I've once again been reminded of the importance of community and the sharing of our giftedness. In our working together we behold Gods faithfulness and I'm truly grateful.

In June Susanne moved to Sioux Falls leaving our organist position open. Laurie Guy stepped in to take her position as she continued to help lead the footstool band. Laurie thank you for all that you do to make our worship truly a time of giving glory to God. You have been a blessing to us all. Thanks again.

Another change was the hiring of a new secretary for the church office, Liz Simpson. What a delight it has been to have her in the office. She is doing a wonderful job of keeping me on task. Once again God has blessed us in a wonderful way bringing Liz to us.

In February we had our first Miracle Sunday celebration and to the astonishment of us all we raised over $105,000 for debt retirement, missions and ministry. What an amazing day that was and I was overwhelmed by your generosity. All of our hearts over flowed in a spirit of gratitude as we once again beheld Gods blessing and faithfulness.

Then as the year ended, came the amazing news that Zion had paid its Conference Apportionments in full! ! I was overjoyed and once again my heart was filled with gratitude for your faithfulness in supporting the ministry of ion. Thank you so much for your sacrificial giving that helped make it all possible.

As your pastor I have truly been blessed this past year and it is only right that gratitude should be the natural outflow of my reflections of the ministry of Zion this past year. Truly we have been blessed by God.

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