Pastor Randall K. Blakey
A packed house, vibrant worship, ten (10) new members, impressive & prepared affirmation mentees and mentors, a fervent & teachable sermon, adapted communion provision, an informative winter congregational meeting, plus a passed 2024 budget, and all done ON Time!
Wow!!! What-a-Sunday at LaSalle Street Church!
From the start we (the Pastoral Staff) knew we had a lot to cover on Sunday Feb. 4th with lots of moving parts. As such, we prayed, planned, prepared and prayed some more, right up to the start of our 10 AM service. And as soon as the soothing melody of that 1926 poem turned hymn began to echo from the ceiling of our historical edifice, I knew that “God’s Great Faithfulness” was ready and present to meet the challenge.
I literally can’t remember the last time we received ten (10) new members at once, but it was a site to behold and a joy to embrace. Kudos to Pastor Brent for walking the newbies through the process, and “thank you” to each new member for your willingness to journey with us as we seek to please God and Gods Kingdom. Next, if you were like me, you were completely blown away by affirmation mentees Magdelene Johnson & Nathan Parrot-Sheffer, as well as their mentors, Liana Zuniga & Ryan Altemare. Their richly articulated experiences of the process and each other, proved that Gods Holy Spirit was in their midst and a Divine Glow upon their heart. Grandparents, parents, and congregants were full of joy with smiles from here to the top of Willis (Sears) Tower. Thank you, Pastor Julie & Pastor Alicia, for facilitating this year’s affirmations process and for your faithfulness towards the next generation of LaSalle.
We were all blessed as Pastor Alicia ministered the importance and significance of living in the image of God as preservative and flavorful salt, and physical bright lights amid social darkness. For the first time prior to Covid, we returned to our original provision of Communion at the alter and side wings. And finally, LSC Elder Board Moderator Kari McGrath, Treasurer Susan Schaefer, and Pastor Liz facilitated our winter congregational meeting with humility, professionalism and grace, that prompted a UNANIMOUS 2024 budget passing. All the work our staff put in to get us to this point must also be noted. Big Kudos to Deb Maloney, Katie Keilman, Lucas Sweitzer, Jonathan Ulanday, and Pastors, Brent, Julie, and Alicia.
I remain extremely excited for Pastor Liz as she not only navigated her first LSC budget but did so in a manner that justified her selection as Senior Pastor, verified the Finger of God upon her life, and personified skillful and servanthood leadership. Kudos Pastor Liz, we’re happy to join you in the practice of expansive faith, generous community, and investing in God’s Justice.
All I can say is:
Wow!!! What-a-Sunday!!!
Pastor Randall