ESUMC News­let­ter

Dear friends in Christ,

Greetings and peace to you! I pray that you and your loved ones are well and enjoying a blessed summer season.

One of the highlights of the ESUMC community every summer is the celebration of Vacation Bible School (VBS). And this year was no different! Last week, twelve children from our community joined together for a week of learning, games, spiritual growth, and fun fellowship in our church and neighborhood.

The theme of VBS 2024 was "Growing God's Garden." Every day, our VBS volunteer leaders shared a reading and led a discussion of Scripture, and organized games and activities based on the daily theme related to creation. On Friday, VBS journeyed to a nearby park for a scavenger hunt and other learning activities in nature.

We give our great thanks to all who participated in VBS: to Shelley Brauneis and Noussi Zahraman for organizing the week; to Sophie Anusie for leading the musical program; to Daniel Mohr and Rania Zahraman for teaching the Bible and offering story time; to Natalie Agyemang and Victoria Sseruwagi for helping to lead activities; to Betty Brustmann, Sigrid Schulzer-Anusie and Deborah Koll-Petty for providing meals and snacks; and to all our children for helping to make the week a time of spirited joy! Please see the brief article below for more photos.

Finally, on a personal note, my family and I will be on vacation during 5-21 August, visiting relatives and friends in the US south and midwest. Our good friend Rev. Tom Garrison will be preaching and leading worship on Sunday 11 and 18 August. I thank you for welcoming Pastor Tom with your love and appreciation.

May God bless you all with a peaceful and joyous end to the summer season. And remember to register for our upcoming Barbecue and Hike in Grünbach, taking place on Saturday 7 September; see more information below.

Yours in Christ, Pastor John