This week's Family Flourishing letter is from Susan Waltar, a member of our congregation who lives & works at Ingalls Creek +++
Dear Trinity Church,
Julia Barger and Fr. Carson invited me to write to you this week from Ingalls Creek Enrichment Center on Blewett Pass, where Doug and I, together with Ron and Leah Cole, live and serve. Like so many of you, the rhythm of our lives and work has been upended in recent months. Life has become more secluded than usual, with quiet retreat grounds throughout the spring.
This morning, I have been reflecting on Jesus’ words of promise: “The thief comes to kill and steal and destroy, but I have come that you may have LIFE – life in all its fullness” (John 10:10). And I ask, “What does fullness of life look like in the midst of COVID-19 and upheaval? How do families flourish in times like these?”
Again, Jesus’ words in scripture give a two-fold invitation: “Come to me, all who are weary, and carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble of heart” (Matthew 11:28-29).
Each summer, Ingalls Creek welcomes interns to engage in growth and service in the community in Jesus’ name. This year, two of our interns, Nicole Juarez Zelaya and Emily Coy have been invited to walk and serve alongside Trinity Church families! Nicole and Emily are both students at Whitworth University.
Nicole (from Tonasket, WA) studies psychology and LOVES sports! (She has participated in all but two of the intermural offerings at Whitworth).
Emily (from Longview, WA) is an Art Major who is looking forward to studying in England, and then pursuing her Masters in Teaching in the coming years.
Together, Emily and Nicole invite you to respond in two ways to Jesus’ invitation to flourish through rest and service:
Renew by spending a family day at Ingalls Creek soaking in the BIGNESS of God’s creation. Schedule a morning that fits for members of your family to engage in activities tailor made for age/stage of life you are in. Nicole and Emily will guide you through activities such as: nature scavenger hunt, art projects, meadow games, campfire, hikes along the creek. See flyer below for details...
Serve your neighbors by continuing Trinity’s connection to Small Miracles lunch program – delivering pre-packed meals to families at the newly renovated Methow Park, just around the corner from the church. Outdoors, in a safely distanced way, we can help ensure that our neighbors get extra needed food. We’ll have opportunities to deepen friendships with Parque Padrinos (friends of the park) along the way. Meals will be served for 5 weeks, Mon-Thurs from July 6 - Aug 6. Sign up for one day (3 hours) or for a day each week, and Nicole/Emily will make sure you have all the information and arrangements you need for your family to engage in this meaningful ministry!
Come, and rest. Learn from Jesus’ way of serving. Receive the gift of LIFE in all its fullness.
Grateful to be part of the journey with all of you,
Susan Waltar
