Dear Buffalo Cov,

One of the core values which I embrace as a follower of Jesus Christ is faith-filled optimism; or put another way, a faith which is optimistic about God's work in the world. I like to think about the incredible ways in which God is at work in our lives through His almighty Holy Spirit. Through Jesus, God has given us everything we need to fulfill His vision for our lives. What is true for us as individual Christians is true for us a the Body of Christ at Buffalo Covenant. 

There are a lot of new things happening at Buffalo Cov. Some people become fear-filled when thinking about change, but I prefer to approach it with faith-filled optimism. Praise God for the decisions for Christ! Praise God for individuals saying 'yes' to Jesus in terms of obedience and sanctification. God is at work in people's lives. People are loving one another in the name of Jesus. People are welcoming newcomers to our church in the name of Jesus.

Last night Melodie and I, along with Trish & Ben Rivers, began leading the Growing Together marriage small group. It was really great to hear everyone's love stories about how God brought them together. But it was even more gratifying to meet a number of couples who have recently been coming to this church, and are growing spiritually and in sanctification. Despite past mistakes of making unwise choices, God has gotten ahold of them through the people and ministries of Buffalo Covenant Church, and is helping these couples to make spiritual progress in their walk with Jesus!

Some other new things happening at the church are the remodel, both in the worship center, and in the parking lot. Through the foresight of the people at BCC last December or January, the decision was made to make room for more people. Jesus has always said, "So go to the street corners and invite to the banquet anyone you find.' " (Matthew 22:9). That's our job, and that sometimes means making sure we have room for them, as we are with the increased seating and parking.

Things will look a little different at BCC this Fall, but we want to approach God's future for us with faith-filled optimism, because God loves us, and God loves the city of Buffalo. So let's let Him love Buffalo through us. This means by continuing to be the outreach-oriented and loving church you have always been. 

Happy to be serving with you in the name of Jesus,

Pastor Bill