Dear Family and Friends of First United Methodist Church of Torrance,
August is one of the brightest months in the life of our church.
There is an unmistakable energy in the air. The laughter of children, the enthusiasm of youth, the dedication of volunteers, and the joyful anticipation of new beginnings remind us that God is always at work, raising up a new generation of faith.
One of the highlights of this month is our Vacation Bible School, taking place August 3–5 in the evenings. For three wonderful days, our church campus will be filled with songs of praise, Bible stories, games, crafts, friendships, and, most importantly, opportunities for children to experience the amazing love of Jesus Christ.
Vacation Bible School is much more than a fun summer program. It is a ministry of planting seeds. Every Bible story shared, every song sung, every prayer offered, and every act of kindness has the potential to shape a child’s heart for years to come. We may never fully know how God will use these moments, but we trust that His Word never returns empty.
I invite our entire church family to keep every child, youth, volunteer, teacher, and leader in your prayers throughout the week. Pray that God would fill our church with joy, safety, and His Holy Spirit. Pray that every child who walks through our doors will know that they are deeply loved – not only by us, but by God.
Then, on Sunday, August 9, we look forward to a very special worship service as our Vacation Bible School children share what they have learned with the congregation. It is always one of the happiest Sundays of the year as we celebrate the faith, creativity, and excitement of our youngest disciples.
During that same service, we will also have our Backpack Blessing. As many of our children, youth, teachers, school staff, and college students prepare to begin a new school year in the middle of August, we will send them with our love, our prayers, and God’s blessing.
As a church family, we have the privilege of surrounding them with encouragement. Every smile, every prayer, every conversation, and every act of support reminds our young people that they belong to a community that believes in them and is cheering them on.
As summer gradually gives way to a new season, may we all embrace the fresh opportunities God places before us. Whether you are returning to school, returning to work, beginning a new chapter, or simply continuing the faithful journey of everyday life, remember the promise of Scripture:
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:8)
May August be a month filled with joyful ministry, renewed hope, growing faith, and countless reminders of God’s faithful presence among us.
I look forward to seeing you at Vacation Bible School and in worship as together we celebrate another exciting season in the life of First United Methodist Church of Torrance.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Jacob Lee