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Evalgelical Lutheran Church in America Northeastern Ohio Synod
Letters from Pastor Alan Smearsoll


March 2020

At the annual meeting of the congregation I mentioned that one of Emmanuel’s strengths is its resources (financial and volunteer). Without fail, when asked, this congregation comes through with monetary donations or with  volunteer effort. God has blessed us with these gifts and therefore calls us to use these resources to be a blessing, not only for this church but also in   service to this community’s many needs.

Lutherans have traditionally been hesitant about community service because of a misunderstanding of “works righteousness.” Jesus said, “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16). Our service to our community is a loving response to the love God has shown for us and is not for our glory, but for God’s. If it is for our glory, it is in vain that we do it. It is, as the ELCA says, “God’s work. – Our hands.”

I have been pleased with the response my challenge has generated. If you have an idea or think of a need in Salem that Emmanuel might be able to address, let me know. Of course, we can’t do it all, but we can do something. Perhaps some of the ideas will involve getting other churches to participate with us. I will be presenting these ideas to council and we will work to sort through and move forward on what we can. Remember that this church is responsible and had a major part in forming both The Banquet and the Salem Community Pantry, two organizations that continue to serve the needs of this community and give glory to God.

Also at the annual meeting, I asked for 12 volunteers willing to meet and pray. Some have asked me what I meant by this and, to be honest, I am not sure myself. I got this idea from one of Max Lucado’s videos and tucked it away until, by the Spirit’s leading, it sprung forth at the annual meeting. The basic concept is that our work as a church will be strengthened through the prayerful support of an intentional group of pray-ers.

I know that all of you are praying and I thank God because of you for this. Keep praying! Jesus had many followers, but 12 close ones. That’s where the number comes from. This group of 12 would have the responsibility of coming together and praying specifically for the ministry and mission of Emmanuel, its pastor and its leaders, not unlike it is Management’s responsibility to watch over the finances of this church or Parish Ed’s responsibility is to see to the educational needs of this church. We would gather to pray, whether it be verbally, silently, meditatively, however the Spirit leads, for the church. No agenda, no business meeting, no tasks to assign, just gather as a group and pray. I have four volunteers already. Could the Spirit be calling you be one of the eight more? Let me know. 

Blessings,
Pastor Alan



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To contact us:
Phone: 330-332-5042
Fax: 330-332-4405
Email: lutheran251@gmail.com
251 S. Broadway Avenue
Salem, OH 44460