Pastor’s Daily Update
Tuesday, January 6, 2026
Sullivan First UMC
Today is National Bean Day—so I hope you’ve gotten in the swing of things and eaten your beans today. I didn’t realize the importance of the day soon enough to include beans in my breakfast or lunch—so I’ll make a conscious effort to honor them for dinner later.
News around the church
- I have crashed two women’s meetings in the church in two days now: the United Women of Faith yesterday and the Women’s Life Group today. From now on I don’t want to hear anyone question my courage. To show I can go out even further on the ledge—I messed with the kitchen yesterday by using the refrigerator and some utensils (for my lunch) without permission. This is my week of living dangerously.
- I also crashed the men’s group this morning (Walking with Jesus). In all of these meetings I have enjoyed hearing about their work and witnessing the care and fellowship. Each of these groups is a sign of the love and strength of our congregation.
- The United Women of Faith (formerly UMW) gave over $8,000 in 2025 to support various groups in town, in our state and country, and around the world. About half their contributions were distributed locally.
- Mark your calendar: One worship service on January 18. It will be 10 a.m. in the sanctuary and followed by a soup dinner.
- A caveat on the last item: The United Women of Faith is planning the soup dinner as a way to welcome the new pastor. But it might be cancelled if I keep crashing the women’s meetings and using the kitchen. Check your text and voice mails that morning to be sure it is still on.
- I am proposing a few organizational changes in our church here at the start of the year. The purpose of the proposals is to help undo bottlenecks, clarify responsibilities, and make operations run more smoothly and efficiently. Most people will be unaffected—but everyone should notice that we are able to respond to people’s needs more effectively. I will hold a couple congregational meetings (one next week and one the week after) to share the changes I will be making, explain the reasons for the changes, take questions, and hear feedback. While I plan to move fast—everyone a change to ask questions and offer critique before changes are actually made. I’ll let you know in tomorrow’s update when we will hold these informational congregational meetings.
- My calendar is filling up for this week, but there are still a few times tomorrow afternoon and Thursday afternoon for those who have some time to set up a time to let me meet you personally.
- Remember that you can contact me directly at 217-898-3148 or jms754@gmail.com
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