August 28 is a special day in the life of our church. First, will be a special morning in worship for children, youth, and all adults taking classes. Pastor Jeff will be blessing the backpacks for all ages to kick start a fabulous 2016-2017 school year. The blessing is for backpacks, books for college, yoga mats, or whatever symbolizes where you are in your lifelong learning, so be sure to bring those to church that Sunday. Plus, that is Homecoming Sunday for Jeff and Cindi as we welcome them home from their travels. (No, we will not let them show all their travel pictures or remind us how cool the temperature has been while we sweltered.) Also, because we’re about $20,000 behind budget, our Finance and Stewardship leaders are calling for a special Catch Up Offering on this day. We are all urged to help make up the deficit in order to move into the Fall more confidently. Of course, if you cannot be here on August 28, you may give your extra anytime this month. Finally, to celebrate the Garretts’ return, ease the transition back to school for our teachers and students, and celebrate our church family, there is a Pot Luck Luncheon in the gym after worship that day as well. See you there for all the festivities.