Welcome to SMC Insider!

Our monthly newsletter has a new name that we hope better describes what happens in these pages and the new, additional format/feature that is being developed. Our goal has always been to give you the inside scoop on what’s been happening with our church family. We believe the new name captures the idea of getting you those stories and more! We hope you will continue to share and seek out inside info on your SMC family and make this newsletter truly newsworthy!

 The front page article is also getting a title change-it’s now “Just so you know.” This catches the essence of what I write as your pastor-I want to be able to tell you things that you can know are accurate and true. I want to communicate clear information that is public and shareable. The new element to my column will be an online blog that you can respond to as well. Maybe you read something and you want to respond with a question or comment-now you’ll be able to do just that!

There is also the flexibility for me to address issues between months as they arise. I’ve often wanted to address a topic the pops up shortly after we have printed for the month. Now with our blog I can stay more current as the Spirit moves me to share. I hope to include others who wish to share their thoughts I believe you need to know-and comments could be shared on those too!

 The other reason I’m changing my article title is the old one was “from the pastor’s desk” sadly, anyone who’s seen my desk knows there’s not much to be desired (or found) there. Not to mention I almost always write these in my quilt covered lazy boy at home! So the new column title is much more accurate as well.

This newsletter was begun from the vision former pastor Richard Ross had to connect SMC through regular church updates and comments from the pastor. A number of editors over the years have done a great job of keeping the letter going. Carol Schrock, Lila Smucker, Rhonda Mease and our current editor Kathy Lehman. Without these talented and organized ladies the letter would have ended long ago-so thanks to them!

Our hope is that SMC Insider will continue in the tradition of Crosswinds to give you the birthdays, anniversaries, pictures and stories you enjoy along with helpful insights from your pastors and others who share in the “just so you know” column. As always your input is always welcome as we strive to make this more relevant and readable tool of connection for our church family and the community at large.