Salem Installation

Our move to Texas came at a time when Jason and I least expected it. We felt content in our areas of ministry in Montana and loved our connections with others there. God surprised us both, however, by making it abundantly clear to our hearts that He wanted us to accept Jason's call to Salem in Texas. We're anxious to see all that God has in store for us here!

Jason's new adventures in ministry began with his installation as the Director of Children's Ministry at Salem Lutheran Church. Below is a picture of the worship center's front entrance. 

Before the installation service began, Jason and I were both given flower corsages to wear.

During the service, our entire family was asked to come forward for Jason's official installation. A large group of children (those under Jason's umbrella of care, children in grades K-6), stood near the altar. 

Cody and Jaden got a bit squirmy in our arms, and then wiggled on the altar steps too, but this picture sure makes it look like our family was perfectly attentive the whole time! :)

Salem has a very unique way of structuring their prayer time. During the worship service, they ask fellow members to "lay hands" on individuals needing prayer. Then the pastor, and often the members surrounding you too, will offer prayers on your behalf. So, at the end of Jason's installation, all the children literally surrounded us with prayer. What a powerful welcome this was!

Following this portion of the service, Jason walked out with the children to lead them in a Children's Church worship time. (Talk about hitting the ground running!) Jason's high energy, humor, musical talent, and love for the Lord are all qualities that will make him an excellent Children's Ministry Director. We enjoyed seeing him in action! 

Following the worship service, there was a reception for our family outside.

Our boys loved the sweet treats (of course!), and we enjoyed connecting with a few new people.

We didn't get a full family picture, but all of the family in town (Matt & Kim's family, Jon & Chelsea's family, Grammy, Grandma & Grandma) worshiped at Salem to see Jason's installation. Their support was a blessing!

Jason and his proud parents

Salem's grounds are absolutely beautiful! This pond stretches from the worship center to the street.

The young ones enjoyed getting an up-close view of the ducks after the reception. Cody and Jaden eagerly anticipate "saying hi to the ducks" each Sunday now.

And a few more "grounds" pictures... This is the covered walkway that connects the worship center with the children's ministry center.

The children's ministry building below also serves as the school's early childhood center.

Here is the inside. Jason leads his children's ministry time in a room off the lower level.

Jason's office is in the upstairs portion of this building. Jason's new ministry team welcomed him into the office by filling all of his picture frames with large funny photos of themselves.

Jason hadn't officially started work prior to this Sunday, so this picture may actually capture Jason's first time sitting behind his desk. What a historic moment. :)

We continue to pray for God's guidance in our lives as we begin this new ministry at Salem. Our thanks go to you, family and friends, for uplifting us in prayer as well. To God be the glory!