Anniversary Number 1

It was on this date, some 11 years ago, that life came to a screeching halt as we watched in disbelief what was happening in front of our very eyes.  We wondered, "Is this actually happening?  Is this real?  Alright, quit playing with our minds."  But when we knew it was true, we cried and we became angry.  We began to search for answers as to "Who did this?" and "Why?"  Obviously through the years that have passed, we have found some healing and life has somewhat returned to life as we knew it.  Yet, the pain is still there as we remember those who lost their lives that day due to the hatred of some.  We also vividly remember those who gave their lives to save others, and we thank them and their families for their sacrifice.

It was also on this date, just 1 year ago, that the life of a church began.  LifeHouse Church Hedgesville came into existence after God provided vision and dreams to JD and Caroline about the church He was looking to have brought to the Hedgesville area.  God also directed them to connect with LifeHouse Church East, our beloved friends in Hagerstown, where the vision and the dreams could be nurtured and given freedom to grow.  So with the blessing and favor of LHE, LHH was launched.

In LHH's year of existence, we have seen growth and God's blessing and favor.  Souls are being changed.  Lives are being discipled.  People are committing their lives to the only Savior, Jesus Christ, this world will ever know.  Their commitment is shown through their desire to give up selfish ambitions to hear God's voice and follow Him.  It's an exciting time in the life of LHH, and greater things are yet to come.

Yet, there has also been pain and struggle in this year's time.  LHH has had to think on the fly regarding decisions about its future.  LHH has had to go from meeting in a school for the first 10 months to meeting in homes these past 3.  But despite what seemed so uncertain, it has become clear that God is moving and the community of LHH is stronger for it.

We have clearly seen that God does work all things together for good, and we are looking forward to many more anniversaries.  But as we celebrate, we also ask for your prayers as many more decisions have to be made.  We know that our hardships are preparing us for the bounty of many more souls to be transformed into Christ's likeness for the Kingdom of God.

So thank you God for one year.  Thank you to all who have prayed and given to LHH.  May God's blessings be upon you and His Church.

In Christ,

Pastor JD