Resolution? Maybe. Loved? Absolutely.

Dear Minooka UMC Found Family,

Nine days into 2026, how are those New Year’s resolutions going? Research suggests almost a quarter (23%) of those who set resolutions quit in the first week(!). So if yours is still going, great job! That same research shows 70% of all resolutions are health-related. Is that you? Whatever your resolution is, I hope it is helping you be healthier, or more content, or feel closer to God.

I’m all for us setting goals and working toward them—both individually and as a congregation. However, I also need to share this important truth, a mashup of quotes from the Rev. Hugh Hollowell and the Rev. Nadia Bolz-Weber:

There is no resolution that, if kept, will make you more worthy of love. You, as your actual self and not some made up ideal, are already worthy.
You are loved by God as you are, right now. You matter because you exist.

Read that again. Then read it one more time. In fact, just pause here and read it as many times as needed for you to really, truly internalize it. You are a blessing.

Our congregation is extraordinarily blessed by the sheer number of dedicated, talented, faithful people who give so much of their time and effort. I’m continually amazed by all of you! This Sunday, January 11, offers one of my favorite annual traditions: celebrating outgoing leaders and blessing and commissioning new and continuing leaders. I hope you’ll be there to pray with me for all our folks in leadership roles.

Whether in person or online, all are invited to our welcoming and affirming congregation.

Plotting Goodness, 

Pastor Dave