Have you ever been so overwhelmed that you don’t know what to say? That’s what Janis and I are feeling now. I’m not talking about being overwhelmed because of the moving and all the boxes… even though that is a bit daunting. (As of this writing, the downstairs boxes are gone! I’m pretty impressed with us.)

The “overwhelmed” part I’m talking about is the gratitude we feel toward you- our new family at Woodland Oaks! Saying “thanks” somehow just doesn’t seem adequate. I realize that the boxes are being emptied so rapidly because you have given us an unusual amount of time to get settled into our new home.

The welcome dinner Sunday evening… the money tree and other gifts… the invitations to eat together… the invitations to your homes… the offers of help… the food… welcoming us into your circles of friends… the warmth of saying, “We’re really glad you’re here.” All these things make us glad we are here too!

I know that first impressions are not always accurate, but age and experience make them more accurate than they used to be. And while first impressions may be a bit naïve, they’re also more objective. You can see the beauty of the forest. There is some unique beauty here that I hope you can all still see. The singing is really encouraging and uplifting. The Bible class teachers are incredibly well prepared and talented. There is a feeling of “family” in the congregation. We have a group of elders who are truly seeking to be spiritual leaders. We have deacons who are genuinely excited about their areas of work. You have a youth minister who truly cares about your kids and their future. Folks like to stay around and talk and laugh together. The Lord has been incredibly gracious to Woodland Oaks- we have a family that has fun together. It’s a great place to be.

Not long ago, I heard someone who was formerly a WOCC member say, “I love my new home, but I just wish I could bring my Woodland Oaks church family with me!”

So, Janis and I feel privileged to be part of this family. And, even though it sounds totally inadequate, we are saying to you a heartfelt “Thank you.” Thank you for opening your lives, your hearts, your homes and making room for us. It is our sincerest hope that we won’t disappoint you.

-Ken Stegall