There's Room at the Table

Friends, I first want to take a moment to express my gratitude for the support and encouragement that’s been shared with me as I transition into my new role as Director of Family Ministry at 1st Pres, and answer a call that God planted deep in my heart. I’m so excited for all that God has in store for our 1st Pres Family in the coming year! 

​The heart of Family Ministry is connection and seeking Christ, together — all ages. God is calling us to live in 

Kierstie Renninger

community with one another. I hope in the coming year, we will strengthen our connections and walk together in whatever season of life in which we find ourselves. Family Camp was such a great example of all generations coming together to build and strengthen our foundations in Christ. It was amazing to hear from families who had been coming to camp for years, parents who were former camp counselors back in their college years, and new friends from all walks of life.
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​If you’ve met my daughter, you know that her personality is really popping these days. She loves to smile and make friends with everyone in the room. Camp was no exception. She effortlessly made friends of all ages throughout our time. One really awesome blessing that came of her new found friendships was the addition of some of her new friends at meal times. I’ll be completely honest and admit that walking into the dining hall on night one had me flashing back to a middle school cafeteria … walking in slowly, searching for a friend in the crowd while simultaneously trying not to make eye contact with strangers …  

That has me thinking about our upcoming potluck this weekend. Does someone newer to us or walking through our doors for the first time feel a similar flashback moment when they walk into the gym for our big potluck? I really want to encourage each of us to make a new friend(s) and invite them to join us at our tables this Sunday. While we may have to add chairs around our table this week, I’m thankful that there’s already a spot for each of us at God’s table. Let’s demonstrate LOVE1st to our whole church family and church visitors this weekend and make sure no one is left out! See you Sunday! 

In His Name, Kierstie