Julie Eklund will preach on May 22 as we celebrate her time with us. Julie, a child of Spring Creek UCC, has served our church as Student Pastor for this academic year. Julie is about to complete her second year of seminary through Chicago Theological Seminary. Julie has known for a while that God is calling her to ministry. Her home congregation affirmed this call. But she was uncertain whether others would see her gifts and abilities for ministry. You, Second First Church, have helped Julie discern that God is indeed calling beyond her home church to do God’s work in the world. Thank you for welcoming her and receiving her leadership and care. Thank you, Julie, for caring so deeply for our congregation, for leading with energy and imagination. Thank you for crafting worship while Rev. Rebecca was on maternity leave. Fortunately, since Julie lives in Rockford, we do not have to say goodbye to her. We can expect to see her in worship on occasion and perhaps even in the pulpit again. Join us Sunday, May 22 to celebrate Julie and send her in God’s name toward the ministry God has in store for her.
