God Is Doing Something Wonderful at Prince of Peace
I’m confident that God is at work here at Prince of Peace. As promised, here’s an update on how things are progressing in God’s Unfolding Plan. Some of these updates are key decisions, while others are just FYIs.
1. Prince of Peace Sacred Settlement
At the Semi-Annual Meeting on Sunday, June 29, 2025, the congregation voted to tentatively approve expanding the Sacred Settlement from 3 homes to 6. The vote passed by a clear majority.
Two main concerns were raised:
- The impact on staff, and
- Funding for the expansion.
Before a final approval vote, these issues need to be addressed. We’re not quite there yet.
Michael Stetzler and the Sacred Settlement Stewardship Team are working on both fronts. Addressing staff workload will likely involve both short- and long-term solutions. Some ideas were discussed at Tuesday’s meeting, and we hope to have a short-term solution in place soon. (No date yet.) Staff feedback will be a key part of the decision-making process.
Michael is also pursuing grants and external funding to support potential new housing.
I’ve joined the Stewardship Team with Michael and Alyssa, giving the council a direct link to the team and strengthening communication and community. Staff support and strong communication are top priorities. More updates will follow.
What truly stood out to me was the dedication of both staff and members to this mission.
The vote to expand wasn’t close—a clear majority wants to move forward, when the time is right.
2. Transition Team
Michael has stepped down from the Transition Team to fully focus on the Sacred Settlement.
Thank you, Michael, for your continued dedication!
We’re in good hands—Intentional Interim Pastor Steve is trained and ready to lead the transition process. He’s begun one-on-one conversations and will work with the council to form the team.
Reminder:
If Pastor Steve asks to meet with you, it’s just a conversation—not a commitment.
If you’re invited to join the Transition Team, please prayerfully consider it. It might feel outside your comfort zone—but we believe you were chosen for a reason.
And remember: saying yes is great, and saying no is okay too.
3. Baptismal Font
The glass baptismal font broke some time ago. Thankfully, no one was hurt—but the damage was beyond repair. A new porcelain font has been ordered. It won’t be exactly the same, and perhaps it shouldn’t be. It will come with its own story.
Expected arrival: 6–8 weeks.
4. Communion Setup & Cleanup
We need help with communion setup and takedown.
You may not have known this, but Milt has been doing it 3 out of 4 weeks!
If you arrive on a Sunday and:
- Communion isn’t set up—please set it up.
- Candles aren’t lit—please light them.
- No one is cleaning up after service—please help clean up.
(Jean Olson, Anna Miller, or I can show you how.)
It only takes about 10 minutes. THANK YOU!
5. ICE Raids and Centro Cristiano Bethel
Centro Cristiano Bethel, a congregation that shares our space, may be affected by ICE raids, though it’s unlikely. PoP is exploring how we should respond in such a situation. If you’d like to help create a response policy, please contact Kristin in the office. This is an evolving issue, and we want to be prepared.
6. Community Dinner – You’re Invited!
Want to try my cooking?
Join us for the Community Dinner on Sunday, July 20 at 5:30 PM in the PoP Gym.
You may be surprised (hopefully in a good way). Yes, I asked my sister what to make and how much—it’s a good thing she knows how to cook! If you’ve never been to one of our dinners, please come. I’d love to see you there.
SEE YOU SUNDAY!