August 2026
From Pastor Scott:
I realize the calendar tells us something else, but August has become the first month of Fall!
In Georgetown County, the schools begin for the fall. Air conditioning means that schools can operate on a full-year schedule. And, that means that summer vacations are severely disrupted. While people in other parts of the country enjoy the last month of summer vacation, our children encounter the rigors of a new school year. Life is certainly full of surprises.
At St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, we also encounter planning activities leading us to the end of the Pentecost season later in the fall. Our preschool is operating with the Georgetown County schedule, so we also begin a new school year. As the weather turns a bit cooler, we give thanks in many ways. And, we consider our activities relating to our annual budget preparations and the Apple Dumpling Festival. This year, we are awaiting the report of the efforts of the Strategic Planning Group. Truly this is a time of hopefulness and optimism as we move into our future as God’s people in Pawleys Island.
Among the most important activities that will unfold before the end of the year is the formation of a Call Committee. Since the Strategic Planning Committee has worked to articulate a path forward for our congregation, our efforts in this regard have begun unnoticed. Now the rest of this task will slowly begin to unfold. During the next few months, the South Carolina Synod will help us with this process. And, because of a limited supply of clergy interested in moving, this process may take some time. However, once the process begins, congregations greet new pastors within a year. Our goal is to create a transition that is as seamless as possible.
In a sense, we have been preparing for this transition for the last two years. During this time, many things have happened. Our ministries are stronger, and our congregation continues to grow.
Our task now is to continue to strengthen the ministries God has called us to pursue. This fall, as we continue to serve, please remember the needs of our congregation not only in your giving, but also through your serving. Harvest of Grace for instance, is a really great ministry. And, during the summer months, we have often served meals to nearly 100 people a week. These meals have helped many people to thrive in our community. And people relating to our congregation have done an excellent job in preparing food and in maintaining this ministry. We continue to need people to serve and to cook on Sunday afternoon. Please sign up for serving on particular Sundays in the church Narthex.
And, as the year progresses, we pray that God will strengthen us as we spread the message of God’s love and grace to our community and the world. We give thanks to God in many ways. Please continue to remember the ministry of St. Peter’s in your prayers and in your actions of faith.
Peace in Christ,
Pastor Scott