Churches

Good day dear hearts, I love you. In a time of despair and confusion and as a Pastor trying to answer the question asked, "why" all the time, I encountered a breath of encouragement and a sign to me God is here and God is in control. This past Sunday, Robin Truex an active member of our church shared with me a post by her granddaughter, 18-year-old Rilynn Groover, a recent graduate from our Susquehanna High School. She also runs our nursery during our Sunday morning service. Read her words.

"This week's events have really opened my eyes to how desperately our country and our generation need help. I've been learning about Jesus and the Bible since I was just 2 years old, and over the years I've come to see how much my faith shapes the way I live and the way I see the world. One thing I've realized is that too many of us keep our faith quiet. It's almost like we're afraid to let people know where we stand, but Jesus never called us to live in silence. He called us to be a light, to let the world hear our praises and to stand boldly for truth. I believe it's time we start praising out loud, not just inside church walls or in private moments, but in our everyday lives where people can see and hear the hope that we have. I believe this is especially important for the youth, because we are the generation that will one day be in charge: the leaders, teachers, parents, and voices of change. If we grow up hiding our faith, then we'll lead in silence too. If we learn to stand strong now, unashamed and unafraid, then we'll be the ones who bring real change into the world. Our generation has the power to shift culture, to set the tone, for what's right, and to make an impact that lasts beyond us.

I don't just want to talk about change; I want to help make that change. I want to live in a way that points people towards Jesus, to step up to be an example, and to encourage others to do the same. I believe that we can be the voices that inspire, the hands that serve, and the hearts that lead our world closer to God."

Rilynn's words are encouraging and give us comfort and hope. In a world who tries to cover itself in darkness, a light of truth from an 18-year-old woman lights up the room. How did we get to where we are? Who is to blame? Look in the mirror and consider Rilynn Groover's words, "Jesus never called us to live in silence. If we grow up hiding our faith, then we'll live in silence too." Very powerful words for the youth of our town and the country. Stop the silence. Stop the complacency and turn back to the things of God. Not much more to say. Take in what Rylinn has to say. God Bless.

Dear Lord, we thank you for your faithfulness and we thank you for being with us in the circumstances and changes in our lives. While we don't have the control to change, let us surrender to you and let your peace wash over us. Father, we ask your blessing upon our little town. Send your Spirit and touch the broken-hearted, give peace to the sick, bless the poor.

Contact me anytime. Pastor Vince Chiaramonte, 570-853-3988, Susquehanna Christian Community Church, 1361 Main Street, clearmountain2158@gmail.

Christ Episcopal Church, Forest City will conduct its annual Blessing of Pets on Sunday, October 5, 2025, 12:30pm to 1:30pm. The annual blessing will be a drive thru with each pet individually blessed inside your car at the Browndale Fire Station, 620 Marion Street, Route 247, Browndale.

ALL pets are welcome to be blessed by Father McGinty. Donations to Dessin Animal Shelter are welcome. Dessin is in need of the following items, please donate at the Blessing or drop off at Dessin directly: kitchen garbage bags, bleach, Hefty contractor garbage bags, assorted sizes of Martingale collars, clumping cat litter, non clumping litter, Purina Cat Chow, Friskies canned cat and kitten food, dog toys- Benebones and Jolly Balls specifically for our super chewers, laundry detergent. Limited number of gift bags for your pet are available. We welcome and serve all in Christ's name. Faith, Food, Fun – join us on Sundays at 9:00am. Check us out on Facebook.