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Pastor’s Ponderings
Did we expect this much rain before coming to the Pacific Northwest? Of course—but somehow, we underestimated how it feels to walk along the riverbank in October. Scott and I tried to outwalk the rain without the raincoats and lost spectacularly, running back laughing as the sky emptied a cold bucket right over our heads.
The month still brought beauty in abundance: leaves blazing with color, mountains dressed in a Creator’s tapestry of yellow, burgundy, red, and still green. It is also such a contrast of light and shadow. Crossing the bridge over the Columbia, I often think about our five congregations—so different in culture yet united by a shared dream of building something new. The bridge has become my reflection point. I can’t stop to take in the view of Mount St. Helens (she hides behind the clouds often, as if teasing), but I know she’s there waiting, calling me to climb.
This fall, I realized I am climbing already. These past four months have been their own kind of hike—challenging, breathtaking, and full of discovery. Each church I visit calls me to try something new. Our Core Group has become a strong and joyful team, preparing our congregations for the long, rewarding journey ahead.
Like any good hike, this one requires preparation. This winter, we continue strengthening our connection so that when the next season comes, we’ll be ready for the higher trails. For now, let’s savor the serenity of autumn without slowing down in doing good.
I’m deeply thankful for all who serve—those feeding the hungry, warming the cold, and praying for their neighbors. And during this Pastors’ Appreciation season, I give thanks for Sandy and Dick Storment, Marilyn Allen, Leon Alden, Scott Kiddle, and Dr. David King, who now joins our preaching team and who is also a jazz pianist and composer. I ask you to pray for him and his wife Melissa after they lost their son. I’m so grateful to our certified speakers Debra Kerstein, Judy Parmley, Andi Patten, Karen Wood, and Richelle Holland.
From the middle of the bridge—between rain and sunlight, between Oregon and Washington—I give thanks for all of you, my companions on this journey of faith and hope.                                                 
Pastor Lydia