Hello, hello and welcome to another intern update! It’s been a busy few days here at Emmanuel with people coming through the building checking out the progress and plenty of meetings meant to imagine the future God desires for us.

There are a few exciting things heading this way. Some of them are blessings well disguised by, say, a leaky roof? Our sanctuary here has been experiencing trouble and the dome above the stage has been steadily damaged by a hole in the roof above it allowing rain to enter. Luckily, our “retired” administrator extraordinaire, Keith Phillips, was able to find a company that would come and re-roof the dome to avoid any further damage. The damage done, however, is starting to look like an invitation to take a fresh look at the stage and we are excited by some of the opportunities God has placed in front of us.

More good news is that the 49^th St. house has been officially closed on and sold to our good friends Community Dinners. There is no disguising this one; this is good news and an exciting partnership opportunity beyond doubt. We are so blessed to have so many good neighbors and partners in this building and all around.

As for us, the interns, we just keep working hard: Jeff did a fantastic job leading on Sunday in Pastor Randy’s stead and Aaron continues to guide us in meaningful worship. Please support Savannah as she is creating the children’s ministry here and here is a friendly reminder to attend her meeting after service this Sunday. She promises it will be brief so no one who attends will even miss lunch.

As for myself and my community building, I am getting to know this neighborhood better each day and it is teaching me what its needs are.  So you can pray for me that I will continue to learn how to meet those needs.

Feel free to drop in to the office this week. You most likely find me making coffee (I’ll share if you ask nicely) and find Aaron singing some song while strumming a guitar.

Thanks for stopping by,

-josh phillips