Greetings all,

Jacob here. Although we are still technically in the Fall season it is beginning to feel more and more like winter has already arrived! We’ve certainly been busy around here and I am excited to share some things that have been going on in the realm of youth and family ministries. Confirmation class continues to go well as we have now met for multiple sessions. I know both the students and teachers have enjoyed the Fall break but I always look forward seeing the students and having class together in person. We also had the opportunity to have our Confirmation Sunday on November 18th in which we confirmed the students who have met the criteria. I want to say congratulations to those whose hard work and dedication has paid off and I look forward to seeing what God has in store.

We also had the opportunity to have our annual Family Pumpkin carving here at the church on Saturday October 24th. It was a great time of fun and fellowship (at a distance) with over 15 families represented. It was a blast having the opportunity to share in some laughs as we all attempted to carve overgrown orange vegetables together! We will be putting some of the pictures on our website so be on the lookout for those.

As for other fun events we have a few that are coming up in the month of November. We are looking at having a ceramic painting night with our more artsy teens and young adults. This event will be sometime in late-November and will give the students an opportunity to show off their artistic skills in painting! I am also looking into the potential of doing more sports nights and capture the flag as well as a table tennis tournament for the youth. Included in these events are games, activities, and lesson plans for the coming months which I am looking forward to being a part of. As always If you are wanting to volunteer or help out with any of these events feel free to reach out to me and we’ll see how we can get you plugged in!

We have also begun offering different Sunday programs. This includes providing a nursery space for parents with young children, wiggle worship, and Sunday school classes. Sunday school is offered at 9:30 and Wiggle worship will be offered after the children’s message at the 10:30 service.

I was reminded this last week of just how great it is to be a part of a loving church community. Regardless of where you find yourself during these times of the unknown you have a place and a people here at Black Forest Lutheran Church.

For His Glory,
Jacob Oglesby