Dear Friends,
Each November, I find myself amazed by the trees that cover our mountains. By the end of summer, they stand deep green and full of life; then, almost overnight, they turn into a canvas of brilliant colors—red, orange, yellow, and brown. As I drive through those mountains on my way to God’s church in Erwin, I often think about how often the Bible speaks of mountains—how the temple of the Lord was built on Mount Zion, and how Scripture says, “I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1–2).
That drive becomes a time of prayer and meditation for me. The mountains and trees preach their own silent sermons about God’s faithfulness. I often ask myself: How do the trees endure the winter? When the fall ends, they shed every leaf and stand bare against the cold. Through the winter, they show no sign of life. Yet beneath the surface, they are alive and waiting. When spring returns, they blossom again—stronger and more beautiful than before.
There is a lesson in that for us—personally, as a church, and as a nation. We all go through our own “winter” seasons: times of loss, silence, or struggle. But as long as we remain rooted in God’s love and grace, life will return. Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit” (John 15:5).
This year, our congregation has known sorrow. We have said goodbye to beloved ones who are now with the Lord. Yet even in our grief, there is hope—they now dwell in the eternal spring of heaven, and their legacy of faith encourages us as we continue God’s work here. This is God’s church, and He is not done with us. He is still sending new friends, new families, and new opportunities for ministry. Our calling remains: to share the good news of Jesus Christ with all who will listen.
And though our nation faces deep challenges, we can rest in the truth that “the Lord reigns; let the earth rejoice”(Psalm 97:1). God is still sovereign. He is still working. He is still redeeming.
So, do not lose heart. Pray for your friends and neighbors, that they may draw near to Christ and taste His grace. Share the hope of God through your words and actions. Come to your home church and encourage one another. If you are struggling, please let us know so we can walk with you. Every prayer, every act of worship, and every moment of service matters in God’s kingdom.
Remember, our fellowship is not just with one another—it is with the living God who makes all things new.
With love and prayer,
Dr. Ramy Marcos