04/16/2024
Five years ago, my wife and I made a significant life change and moved to Panora from our home in Johnston, Iowa. Although we were very excited about life at the lake and all the great memories that would follow, we left behind the church we had known, loved and raised our family in for the past 30 years. The most challenging part of this move was the thought of making new friends, and finding a worshipping community we could become part of and serve in.
In early June of 2021, Hope Local Panora had just launched, and I mentioned to my wife that we should check it out. From the moment we set foot at Hope Local Panora, we knew this was part of Godās plan for us. We connected right away with several couples and found the teaching and worship to be phenomenal. We felt like we had found home!
Since then, a lot of Spirit-led moments have transpired, continuing to confirm the work of Godās Hand in our midst. Since getting connected at Hope Local Panora, we have been involved in many ways. Together we have we formed a small group, volunteer at Hope Kids, Vacation Bible School, and Taste of Hope! My wife got involved in a Womenās Bible study, and I have been blessed to be a part of Hope Worship the last two years. God has been so faithful!
Last fall, my wife and I got to be part of a mission team made up of Hope Local site members to build a home in Ensenada, Mexico. It was one of the best things weāve done together as a couple since weāve been married. Getting to be a part of that home build with fellow Hopesters and to see the tears of joy on the faces of the family we were blessed to serve, are memories we will always hold dear.
Weāre so thankful for Lutheran Church of Hope and Godās faithfulness in working through this local body of Christ. This Church has been a huge blessing to us! Iām excited for what lies ahead and what other plans He has for us!
āNow all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen.ā Eph. 3:20-21
-Galen + Carol R.