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August Newsletter

 Friends of Shalom,

"Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain." -Psalm 127:1

In the work of church planting we get to learn this lesson over and over. There are many moments where it's easy to wonder, "Is this going to work? Will people come?" God often brings me to the edge of my faith and wondering. And then... He works! He shows me that He is building Shalom Anglican. Here are some ways I've seen him build his house over the last month.

Shalom Update

  • A local business owner saw our sign and contacted me. We had a great meeting over coffee and a few weeks later he showed up on Sunday morning. Later I learned that it had been years since he's been to church. He's excited to keep coming! 
  • We were asked by the school we rent from if we were able to clean up the grounds around the building. I put it before our church and not only did we have 10+ volunteers but one even volunteered to lead the project! It's encouraging to see that enthusiasm.
  • People are connecting outside of official church events. I'm hearing about families getting together for meals and coffee. Community is forming!
  • A strong Christian couple recently committed to be a part of our church plant. I can see how their presence is blessing our core group.
  • One young man agreed to help me with our website! 
  • People are inviting people and they're sticking around!
Prayer Requests
  • Pray for our second round of men's and women's book groups. For the month of August we're reading Mere Christianity by CS Lewis.
  • Pray for a family that was a part of our church the last 3 months who are moving to California. We will miss them, but really enjoyed journeying together even though it was a short time.
  • Pray for me as I have to tackle some administrative tasks (not my favorite thing to do)!
  • Pray for our catechism class beginning this fall. This will be a key step in forming our church and eventually forming a church council to help guide us into the future. 
As always, thanks so much for your prayers and support!

For the Shalom of Kitsap,

Rob and Beth


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