Dear Beloveds of God,

Earlier this year, we entered a season of transition with my call changing from full to part time, consistory leadership changing, welcoming new people into our church, new groups starting, using new digital equipment, and introducing some new ways of showing up and doing ministry together.

One transition that the church leadership and staff recently decided on which effects those who are reading this is changing the church newsletter from monthly to quarterly. The decision to make this shift was not entered into lightly. The church leadership and staff spent time praying, discerning, dialoging about it, and weighing the options. We will try this for the remainder of 2026 and then re-evaluate the process – what works well and what are our opportunities – how will we proceed in the future.

Moving forward y’all will receive this newsletter this month for June through August and then the next newsletter in September for September through November. Then there will be a special Christmas letter sent out in December with worship services and church life events included in it. This means that we have to start planning for the newsletter much more in advance and will need information on: church events, fellowship opportunities, church news, outreach and growth opportunities, Sunday school activities, worship services, special services, information and articles submitted ahead of time for a three-month period.

One thing that will not change is you will receive the calendar with church events and worship services as well as birthdays and prayer lists on a monthly basis. All of these will be sent via mail or email whichever you are signed up for currently.

As we make different transitions, we will do our best to effectively communicate those with y’all and engage in dialogue through the time of discernment of some things. You can also find communications and information via the church website, the church Facebook page, ask the church secretary to add your email to our email blast list, call the church office, or reach out to a consistory member or myself.

Church website: https://firstbethlehem.com/

Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/firstreformedbethlehem/

Church Office Phone Number: (518) 767-2243

As we continue to walk through this season of transition, I want to remind us of a foundational truth: this is the Lord’s church, not ours. Whether we are navigating changes in leadership, refining our ministries, or adapting to new rhythms, God is continually at work, preparing us for the good works He is calling us to do.

Transitions often bring feelings of uncertainty and apprehension. It is natural to experience a sense of loss for what was familiar and comfortable. Yet change also creates space for new opportunities and fresh expressions of God’s faithfulness. The key to thriving in this season is keeping our eyes fixed not on changing circumstances, but on the unchanging promises of God.

As we move forward together, I encourage us to:

Lean into Fellowship - Make time to gather, share meals, encourage one another, and strengthen the bonds of our church community.

Focus on the Mission - Keep the main thing the main thing. While methods and programs may evolve, the life-changing message of the Gospel remains the same.

Pray Continually - Join me in praying for our congregation, our leaders, and the future God is shaping before us.

Seasons of transition can become defining moments in the life of a church. They invite us to trust God more deeply, step beyond our comfort zones, and follow Him into the opportunities He has prepared. I am deeply grateful to walk through this season with such a resilient, faithful, and loving congregation.

No matter what lies ahead, we can move forward with confidence, knowing that God is with us, guiding us and sustaining us every step of the way.

Blessings and Peace,

Pastor Jenn