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Staff Trax

Hello, Summer!

It seems like summer goes by fast once it officially starts. Of course, if you have lived in the Midwest for a while you know that summer weather usually happens long before summer begins. However, it is still over in a blink of an eye. It is because we anticipate it so much. There is so much to plan into 3-4 months before the weather starts to get cool again and summer activities like swimming…

Juneteenth

Many of you might not even be aware, but this past Sunday we celebrated the first new federal holiday since President Reagan added Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday in 1983. Until Juneteenth, there had been 10 federal holidays. The fact that the last two new federal holidays honor civil rights shows something about the state of our country today.

When I read the date that MLK’s birthday…

Father’s Day

Sunday is Father’s Day.

This year will be one to remember for myself. My youngest and last to leave for college has affected my life so much in raising her from infant to a young adult.

These past years with all of her activities she has done for years, each one that ended came to an emotional end. Though I didn’t show it during the last game, last team banquet, and last awards,…

Walking with Jesus

Have you ever heard someone say, “The answer is always Jesus?”

Jesus is the answer …

To our problem with sin.
To our separation from God.
To our guilt and our shame.
To our fear and worry.
To hopelessness and despair.
To what our life together as the body of Christ in the world can look like.

Yes,…

Gathered in My Name

I love that our building in Lenexa that houses our staff offices, Pantry Pack, and fellowship area is named “Koinonia Hall.” I remember when we voted on that name, and how very long it took me to remember how to pronounce and spell it!

Did you know that the word fellowship is derived from the Greek word koinonia? Merriam-Webster defines koinonia as “the Christian…

A Day of Remembrance

As we approach Memorial Day this year, we will be thinking about the suffering overseas, the needless deaths and destruction of cities in Ukraine. At home we will think about our fallen heroes of war. We will visit cemeteries and memorial sites and honor those who have fought and lost their lives in battle. We may spend time with family and friends, attend a picnic or family reunion. Whatever we…

Rejoicing in the Unknown

But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. You heard me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I am coming to you.’ If you loved me, you…

Starting Over

Starting over. What would you do differently if someone asked you that? What changes would you make?

In this Sunday’s second reading of Revelation 21:1-6, you see a new heaven and a new earth. Starting a new life sounds tempting, but that comes with new mistakes, and so many other things come into play. This would be a good verse to dwell in the word with, and this can be interpreted differently…

What Should We Do Next?

Lately, people have been asking me, “What are Salem’s plans for the future?” Although I cannot provide a complete answer to this question right now, I can assure you that Salem’s leadership team is moving forward with a strategic planning process advocated by Mike Ward, an experienced Lutheran pastor, author, and recognized leader in stewardship ministry.

Before rushing to answer…

Growing Up at Salem

This June is my 12-year anniversary of becoming Salem’s worship and music director. This Sunday, my oldest child will be honored as one of Salem’s promising seniors graduating high school. Casey was in first grade when Salem became our church family.

When you come on Sunday, you will see many memories of this fantastic class of 2022 as they grew up at Salem. Together they have learned,…

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