June 12, 2025

Dear Central Church,

Last Sunday, we celebrated the giving of the Holy Spirit. Jesus gives the Holy Spirit as an encourager and advocate, ensuring that we are never alone and that we have the power to do what he’s called us to do. I’m thankful for this gift that brings people together from every “nation, tribe, and tongue.”

God is doing that at Central Church, and I am excited to be part of a congregation with more than 30 different nations represented. It’s hard work to be a multicultural church, but God is giving us everything we need to live into this vision through the power of the Holy Spirit. Praise the Lord! 

I’m excited to begin a new sermon series with you this Sunday! Joy Ride is a summer sermon series that takes us through the book of Philippians. The word joy is mentioned more times in this short little book than anywhere else in scripture. Paul had great affection for the church in Philippi, and they were big supporters of his ministry. They were partners together for the Gospel, which was a "joy ride" even in the midst of difficult circumstances. 

The amazing thing about joy in this book is that Paul is writing from prison in Rome. Paul finds his joy not in his circumstances, but in his identity in Christ! 

I hope you’ll join us Sunday as we begin this journey together. We’re back to our normal schedule in the English-speaking congregation, with services and Life Groups at 9 and 10:30 am. See you Sunday!

Waiting with Joy,
Pastor Mark