April 21st, 2026
by Katrina Watkins
by Katrina Watkins
As God continues to bless us with rain, we’re seeing it everywhere—the grass is growing rapidly, the trees are full, and the beauty of His creation is on full display across our campus. With that growth comes the reminder that what God provides, we are called to steward well.
I want to take a moment to recognize some of the incredible hands and hearts that have been caring for our church grounds. I’ve seen so many faithfully serving—Matt Nelson, Vanessa Wood, Tom & Linda Rath, Randall Brockett, Brian Masini, Pastor Anthony—just to name a few. Your willingness to serve does not go unnoticed. You are helping keep this place not just maintained, but welcoming and honoring to God.
This property is a gift, and it belongs to all of us. If you have a green thumb or simply enjoy being outdoors, there is a place for you here. Whether big or small, every effort matters. If you feel led to get involved, please reach out—I would love to help get you connected.
At the same time, our hearts are heavy as we remember two members of our church family who have gone home to be with Jesus this month. Ed Stulpinskas, who lived a full and faithful 100 years, and Marvin Hanson, who lovingly created personalized wooden pieces to welcome each new member into our church family. Their lives left a lasting imprint on First Lutheran, and they will be deeply missed.
In moments like these, we are reminded to lean into God and one another. I believe God is calling us to look to Him like never before—to draw closer, to support each other, and to walk together through both joy and grief. This is a sacred opportunity to live out the Gospel in real and tangible ways.
As we reflect on Marvin’s beautiful tradition of welcoming new members, I will be prayerfully considering a new way we can continue that legacy of intentional, heartfelt connection.
Please remember—you are not alone. We are a church family, and we are here for one another. Let’s continue to stay united in Christ’s mission, loving deeply, serving faithfully, and carrying out His greater plan together.
If you haven’t already, take a moment to check out our updated website and stay connected through our app. I’ve had the joy of helping several people get logged in, and I’m more than happy to help you or your loved ones as well. It takes less than 10 minutes to get set up!
Until next time—
Shalom, and stay connected.
I want to take a moment to recognize some of the incredible hands and hearts that have been caring for our church grounds. I’ve seen so many faithfully serving—Matt Nelson, Vanessa Wood, Tom & Linda Rath, Randall Brockett, Brian Masini, Pastor Anthony—just to name a few. Your willingness to serve does not go unnoticed. You are helping keep this place not just maintained, but welcoming and honoring to God.
This property is a gift, and it belongs to all of us. If you have a green thumb or simply enjoy being outdoors, there is a place for you here. Whether big or small, every effort matters. If you feel led to get involved, please reach out—I would love to help get you connected.
At the same time, our hearts are heavy as we remember two members of our church family who have gone home to be with Jesus this month. Ed Stulpinskas, who lived a full and faithful 100 years, and Marvin Hanson, who lovingly created personalized wooden pieces to welcome each new member into our church family. Their lives left a lasting imprint on First Lutheran, and they will be deeply missed.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18
In moments like these, we are reminded to lean into God and one another. I believe God is calling us to look to Him like never before—to draw closer, to support each other, and to walk together through both joy and grief. This is a sacred opportunity to live out the Gospel in real and tangible ways.
As we reflect on Marvin’s beautiful tradition of welcoming new members, I will be prayerfully considering a new way we can continue that legacy of intentional, heartfelt connection.
Please remember—you are not alone. We are a church family, and we are here for one another. Let’s continue to stay united in Christ’s mission, loving deeply, serving faithfully, and carrying out His greater plan together.
If you haven’t already, take a moment to check out our updated website and stay connected through our app. I’ve had the joy of helping several people get logged in, and I’m more than happy to help you or your loved ones as well. It takes less than 10 minutes to get set up!
Until next time—
Shalom, and stay connected.
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