● September 2026 "The Mountain Top Messenger" Newsletter
(please click on above link to open current newsletter)
A Season of Change, a Season of Blessing
As we look around us, it is hard to believe that summer is already beginning to draw to a close. The days
are getting shorter, the evenings a little cooler, and before we know it, school will be back in session. For
many families, this is a time of new beginnings—new teachers, new classrooms, new schedules, and
perhaps even new opportunities. While the change in seasons can bring a busy transition, it also gives us
an opportunity to pause and give thanks to God for the many blessings He has provided throughout the
summer.
As a congregation, we too are entering a new season of activity and learning. Our Adult Bible Study will
resume on Monday, September 14, at 10:00 AM. I encourage everyone who is able to join us as we
gather around God's Word. Bible study is not simply about gaining information; it is an opportunity to grow
together in faith, encourage one another, and hear again the promises of our gracious Lord.
Sunday School and Confirmation will resume on Sunday, September 20. We are looking forward to
having our young people back together as they continue to learn about God's Word and grow in their
understanding of the Christian faith.
This year we are looking for some additional help with Sunday School as we look to divide the children into
two groups: 4K through 2nd Grade and 3rd Grade through 6th Grade. We are working on a rotating
schedule so that those who volunteer will not be required to teach every week. If you have an interest in
working with our children, this is a wonderful opportunity to serve the Lord and our congregation. You do
not need to be an expert teacher—simply a willingness to share God's Word and spend time with our
young people is a great gift.
We also want to remind everyone about our upcoming Fall Harvest Music Festival and Dinner,
scheduled for October 24th. This promises to be a wonderful opportunity for fellowship, good food, and
an enjoyable evening together as a church family. If you have a musical or other talent that you would like
to share as part of the program, please see Tiffany Darling or Pastor. We would love to hear from you!
Another exciting development is our new Zion Lutheran Church website. Take a few minutes to visit www.zionlutheranashland.com and take a look around. The website is still a work in progress, and we
welcome your thoughts and suggestions. If you see something that could be changed, improved, or added,
please let us know. Our hope is that the website will become a useful way to share the life and ministry of
Zion with both our members and the community.
Finally, a special word of thanks to Jim Solberg for taking on the position of Secretary. We are grateful for
Jim's willingness to serve and for the time and effort he is giving to help with the work of our congregation.
The ministry of a congregation depends upon many people quietly and faithfully using the gifts God has
given them.
As we enter another busy season, it is worth remembering the words of the Apostle Paul: "I have learned
in whatever situation I am to be content." Philippians 4:11.
Contentment does not mean that everything in life is perfect or that we should never seek to improve our
circumstances. Rather, Christian contentment comes from knowing who is in control. Our circumstances
change. Seasons come and go. Children grow, schedules change, responsibilities increase, and plans
sometimes turn out differently than we expected. Yet through all of it, our Lord remains faithful.
Paul goes on to say, "I can do all things through him who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13). Our
strength and our contentment do not come from having everything we want or from having an easy life.
They come from Christ, who has redeemed us, forgives our sins, and promises to remain with us.
So as summer gives way to fall, let us not simply rush into the next season. Let us take time to give thanks.
Let us be content with the blessings God has placed before us, eager to serve where He has called us,
and confident that whatever the coming months may bring, our gracious Lord will continue to lead and
sustain His people.
May God bless our families, our children, our teachers, and the entire Zion Lutheran Church family
as we begin another season together.
The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious unto
you, the Lord look upon you with favor and give you peace.
Pastor Rick
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