He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance! (Acts 28:31)

Dear my Church Family,

I am Pastor Sophia.

Can you believe we’re already in July? I hope you’re finding time to enjoy the sunshine, spend time with family and friends, and maybe even sneak in a little ice cream now and then. (After all, summer calories don’t count!)

Today, I’m reminded that each of us is carrying something different. Some of us are celebrating answered prayers and joyful milestones. Others are facing health concerns, caring for loved ones, making difficult decisions, or simply feeling tired after a busy season of life. Most of us are probably experiencing a little bit of both—moments of joy mixed with moments of uncertainty.

One of the things I love about our faith is that we don’t have to pretend everything is ok. God welcomes us just as we are—with our gratitude, our questions, our worries, and our hopes. God is walking beside you every step of the way even when you don’t notice.

This Sunday we’ll look at Acts 28:23–31.  The final chapter of Acts tells us a remarkable story of the early church. You will find that the story seems open-ended or unfinished. Why is it?  God isn’t finished writing the story for all of us. In many ways, it’s an invitation for us to consider how God is still working in and through ordinary people like you and me.

Please join us for worship. Bring your joys. Bring your burdens. Bring your questions. Most of all, come expecting to encounter the God who continues to surprise us with grace, hope, and new beginnings as he writes our life story together.

If you know someone who could use a little encouragement, why not invite them to come with you? Sometimes a simple invitation can make a bigger difference than we ever imagine.

Also, let’s be one in prayers for our youth missionaries who will go to a mission trip from July 12-17. Your prayer will bring a big transformation for their lives.

Thank you for being such a wonderful church family. It is a privilege to serve alongside you, to pray with you, and to witness the many ways God is working through Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church. Love you all in Christ.

Sophia (Seung Hae) Yoo-Hess