Dear Friends in Christ, I hope this letter finds you well as we move into the summer season. With summer comes the church season of Pentecost. I need to find my green stole and embrace it. Of course it all began with the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles, marking the birth of the church and signifying a divine outpouring of God’s love and power.
One of the most striking aspects of Pentecost is the gift of speaking in tongues. People from various nations heard the apostles proclaiming the wonders of God in their own languages. This miraculous event underscores a critical truth: God desires to communicate with each of us in a way that we can understand. To listen for God’s voice in our own language, we must develop a heart of stillness and openness. Daily prayer, contemplation, and reading Scripture are essential practices. As we quiet our minds and open our hearts, we create space for the Spirit to speak to us in ways that resonate deeply with our unique circumstances and experiences. Pentecost teaches us about the guidance and protection provided by the Holy Spirit. Just as the apostles were empowered and directed to spread the Good News, we too are guided by the Spirit in our daily lives. When we seek the Spirit’s guidance through prayer and discernment, we can trust that we will be led along paths of righteousness and safeguarded from harm. The Spirit’s presence acts as a divine compass, steering us through life’s uncertainties and challenges.
Additionally, the Holy Spirit brings new life. At Pentecost, the apostles were transformed from fearful followers into bold proclaimers of Christ’s resurrection. This transformative power is available to us today. When we invite the Spirit into our hearts, we experience renewal and New Life. The Spirit breathes new life into our faith, enabling us to live with greater purpose, joy, and love.
As we continue to walk in faith, let us remember the gifts of Pentecost. Let us listen attentively for God’s voice, seek the Spirit’s guidance and protection, and embrace the new life the Spirit brings. May we be filled with the same fervor and courage as the apostles, sharing the love and grace of God with all those we encounter.
In Christ’s love, Pastor Jonathan
====================================================================== Hello my name is pastor Jonathan Dodson. I am child of God and a follower of Jesus. My home is in Plummer Minnesota with my family Kelly, Jack and Lyla. Kelly and I have been married since 2000 and people that know us both like her better. We have lived in Plummer since 2005 when we came straight from Luther Seminary. I realize that our 18 years up here really isn't long in the grand scheme of things but I do feel like we've started some roots. Everything I know about God I learned from the Bible, my family and the Good People of Northwestern Minnesota. We love it here; it is a good and proper home for the faithful.
I am happiest in the open air, learning something new, connected with people. My favorite scripture verse is whatever I'm reading that day. I believe that God's Word is a living and breathing one. If I was forced to chose, I would pick Romans 5:1-2 in an attempt to lift up God's Grace. That is the central theme of scripture and my personal experience. My favorite hymn is “Lord of All Hopefulness.” Though my favorite verse is found in “Amazing Grace” when we sing about being home with God for ten thousand years; it reminds me that I have lots of time to practice guitar. I am looking forward to our ministry together!
Yours in Christ, Pastor Jonathan
Pastor Jonathan shares his adventures while showing the three churches are within "walking distance" of each other.