Kindred in Christ,

As we move into this new year, I invite you to pause and take a deep breath. Allow your fears and hopes for the year ahead to come to mind, be mindful of your feelings, and offer them to God to hold with you. And remember that the turning of the calendar is a sacred moment—a threshold between what has been and what is yet to come. It’s a time to reflect on the journey we’ve walked together, to give thanks for God’s accompaniment, and to open our hearts to the possibilities of the year ahead.

The words of the prophet Isaiah come to mind, “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:19). These words echo across the centuries, calling us to trust in a God who is always creating, always renewing, always inviting us to participate in the unfolding of God’s kingdom on earth, even in the midst of turmoil and uncertainty.

This year, I encourage each of us to ask: What new thing might God be doing in and through my life? What new thing might God be doing in and through our church?

As a community rooted in the justice seeking way of Jesus, we are uniquely called to embody love, healing, and inclusion. This might mean stepping into uncomfortable conversations, reaching out to those on the margins, or imagining new ways of gathering and service. It might mean being open to God showing up in unexpected people, places, and moments.

Friends, this world is aching for the kind of love that transforms, the kind of hope that sustains, and the kind of faith that calls us into action. I am grateful that together, we can continue being part of this healing work in new ways with our neighbors.

May this new year be a season of growth, grace, and abundant joy. May we lean deeper into God’s promise to do a new thing, and may we have the courage to say yes to all the promptings of God.

Alongside you,

Rev. Paul Ortiz