For several years now, my wife Colleen has been the pumpkin patch coordinator here at Grace. Even during the pandemic year of 2020, Colleen led our busiest pumpkin patch in Grace’s history. Our pumpkin patch is well-known on Merritt Island and in the surrounding community as a welcoming, fun place for families. Every year, we meet new families coming to take pictures…

Here we are at the beginning of another Labor Day weekend. I recently learned that Labor Day has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1894. An article I read stated that during the late 1800s, “ the average American worked 12-hour days and seven-day weeks in order to eke out a basic living.” Personally, I am grateful that we…

I have been back in Florida after a vacation to Ohio where we had both our family reunion and I had my high school class reunion for almost two weeks. It was a wonderful time away. I so enjoyed seeing family and friends. Some of those friends I hadn’t  seen since high school graduation! It was time filled with lots of laughter…

Our preschool is open again as we begin a new school year. The Grace UMC preschool continues to serve families with excellent teachers and staff, and we are excited to meet new parents and children as the new school year begins. Please remember that children may be present if you drive through our parking lot during the week, so drive slowly and…

Last Sunday, Pastor Dave McGaffic offered a wonderful reminder to us all about the timeless wisdom of sowing and reaping. He also reminded us of the importance of prayer as a practice that changes us. As we pray, we reinforce the reality of the presence and power of God. We cannot control so much of what happens in this world, but we…

Thanks to all the in-person volunteers, and those that made donations for this past Saturday’s Country Store. We were able to serve 84 clients and give out 108 backpacks for the school age children and 96 sack lunches. It is hard to believe, but with this store we finished our eleventh year of doing this ministry at the church. Thank you to all that…

Another summer break is quickly coming to an end for our students, teachers, and school staff.  School starts August 10, and I know many people are preparing for the new school year this week. I pray for a school year exceptionally free of violence, illness, and tragedy. May God’s Grace sustain our students and all school personnel. Many volunteer hands made for quick…

Earlier this summer, we had a 9am worship service with a focus upon traditional hymns from the United Methodist Hymnal. Several folks mentioned that they would welcome such a service from time to time. So, our plan at Grace is to offer this type of worship every fifth Sunday. That means that this coming Sunday, July 31, at the 9am service, we will sing several of the old…

I remain on track in reading through the Bible in a year. I just finished Proverbs and am beginning Ecclesiastes. While my life is currently as busy as it has ever been, my time in scripture is truly the best thing I do for my sanity each day. I use The Message Devotional Bible, which includes Eugene Peterson’s very insightful reflections on…

What an exciting week we will have as we host a Family with Family Promise for the first time in a while. I am so grateful for all who volunteer to help and make our families feel special and welcome. This is the gift of hospitality. Making sure all those who come into your life, no matter how long or short a time…