Greetings in August, 2021….what wonderful summer breezes and beautiful sunsets we will be enjoying this month!
Data from the 2020 census tells us that 39% of marriages are ended in divorce in America and the spiral is moving upward. We all have our opinions on why this is true but it’s not our opinions that will stop this trend. Many of us have been hurt through divorce and many of us have had long and successful marriages (albeit with rough spots) …some even more than one. We need to share our stories of pain and our stories of commitment with the younger generation. They need to hear more about learning to like and love the mate of their choice and be committed to the vows they gave each other. Here at Grace, we can help them do just that.
Tracy Sims, our associate pastor, sent me the following good news to pass on to you. “If you are looking to influence the next generation of young families through a GCF ministry, then be sure to check out the revamped GCF Marriage Coaching ministry. Your experience is needed now more than ever! The Marriage Coaches walk alongside couples in need of some help, but not at the professional counseling level. If you have any questions or interest, please reach out to Tracy Sims (tracy@gcfweb.org).”
What a wonderful way to share experiences with our younger generation. These couples may be your children or grandchildren. Wouldn’t you want someone to be there for them? Perhaps you could talk to Tracy about you being there for someone else’s family members.
This month we will feature a fairly new SWAP Team member.
Marsha Pierpoint joined the SWAP leadership team several months ago. She’s active in the area of fellowship with Keith Sherman and Helene Hughitt. We hope to have get-togethers at least quarterly. Since many of you have never met Marsha this is your opportunity to get to know her.
Marsha was born and raised in Eugene in the Santa Clara area. She graduated from South Eugene High in ’58 (so now you know her age! Ha!) After going to beauty college and working in local shops for about five years she bought her own shop with a friend called ‘The First Lady of Hairstyles’. If you already know Marsha, then you know the name fits. She’s a classy lady!
Marsha married Gary Pierpoint and they enjoyed a family of three children; David, John, and Mollie (Smith). You may know David’s wife, Debby, who runs GCF pre-school. The grandchildren are Alexander, Emily, Tatum and Gage. After a long illness, Marsha’s husband went to be with the Lord in 2017.
Marsha tells us, “We started at Grace in 1997. I found the meaning of being a follower of Jesus in 1963 from a Campus Crusader while doing her hair. I was lukewarm off and on for quite a few years. You know, busy with life. Hummm. I finally ‘really’ gave all to Him when Gary was sick and now continue to be really happy and given to Him. I’m not sure what He really has in mind other than just being available to others and His calling.
I’m involved in SWAP because I was asked and love being of service whenever I can. I hear Senior’s saying, ‘I put in my time’ or ‘I’ve already done that’. I say, not if you want to serve God. There’s always something to be done.”
May we all follow Marsha’s example and give God our all until He calls us home.
The other day I went shopping and bought some 250 million year old Himalayan salt. The label says it expires in August. (Sorry, I couldn’t resist! )
Well, that’s not all that will expire. Soon our beautiful warm (or hot!) weather will be gone. The grass won’t have to be mowed as often. An evening on the patio with iced tea and lemonade will be replaced with hot chocolate. So this is the month to enjoy your favorite outdoor meal, read a book, play a yard game with the grandkids, hike around the lake and spend time with friends and family. These moments are precious and will be gone soon. But, in its place will come the return of Bible studies, community groups, regular church attendance (together – inside!! Yeah!) and opportunities to serve God at Grace Community Fellowship and in the community. So….come back in September to read our next newsletter and see what we have in store for you!
