The Heart of Our Church: Honoring the Dedicated Members Who Serve
In the quiet foothills of Grass Valley, our church stands not just as a building of worship, but as a beacon of faith, service, and community. While the walls of our sanctuary provide a sacred space for prayer and fellowship, it is the individuals within—our devoted church members—who truly bring our mission to life. Their time, talents, and selfless contributions shape the very foundation of our church and extend far beyond into the community we are blessed to serve.
Every week, volunteers step forward to ensure that our church remains a place of warmth, welcome, and outreach. Some dedicate their time to greeting visitors with kind smiles, offering hospitality that turns strangers into friends. Others give their voices to the choir, leading us in worship through song and lifting our spirits with harmonies that echo through our pews. The impact of their work is felt in every corner of our community, from local food pantries to homes where individuals find comfort in a helping hand.
In Grass Valley, our church members serve not for recognition, but out of love—love for God, for their neighbors, and for the call to make a difference. Their contributions remind us that faith is not just about Sunday worship, but about living that faith in action every day. As we gather in gratitude, let us recognize and celebrate these quiet heroes whose devotion strengthens our church and uplifts our town.
To every volunteer, every member who gives of themselves: thank you. Your service is not just seen—it is cherished, and it is the heartbeat of our church family.
Every week, volunteers step forward to ensure that our church remains a place of warmth, welcome, and outreach. Some dedicate their time to greeting visitors with kind smiles, offering hospitality that turns strangers into friends. Others give their voices to the choir, leading us in worship through song and lifting our spirits with harmonies that echo through our pews. The impact of their work is felt in every corner of our community, from local food pantries to homes where individuals find comfort in a helping hand.
In Grass Valley, our church members serve not for recognition, but out of love—love for God, for their neighbors, and for the call to make a difference. Their contributions remind us that faith is not just about Sunday worship, but about living that faith in action every day. As we gather in gratitude, let us recognize and celebrate these quiet heroes whose devotion strengthens our church and uplifts our town.
To every volunteer, every member who gives of themselves: thank you. Your service is not just seen—it is cherished, and it is the heartbeat of our church family.
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Meet Leslie StutzWhen visiting friends in Grass Valley years ago, Leslie fell in love with the mountains and the area's slower pace. When she and husband Bob drove Church Street, Emmanuel's 1858 carpenter gothic exterior caught her eye. She got out of the car to peek inside.
"The interior was beautiful," she said. "It took my breath away--especially the rood screen!" (A rood screen is a floor-to-ceiling, ornate partition located between the church's main body and the area around the alter, including choir and sanctuary spaces.) Leslie and Bob eventually moved to the Grass Valley area, renting till they purchased and renovated a home in Lake Wildwood. Although living a distance from Grass Valley, Leslie knew that Emmanuel was where she wanted to worship. She has enjoyed Reverend Seth Kellermann these past 15 years. "He is humble," she said, "relating to people of all ages. He fist-bumps with the children. He is fun and funny. Yet, he turns around and comforts people. His love of the Trinity shines through." |
Moreover, Leslie's familiarity with the congregation is a comfort. "Everyone is friendly and kind," she said.
Leslie was a member of the Vestry's Worship Committee. Lent is an especially busy time, whereby the Committee coordinates with Reverend Kellermann to organize Lenten events. They include soup suppers, Stations of the Cross and the Easter egg hunt.
Thank you, Leslie, for having served a second, three-year term on Emmanuel's Vestry.
Leslie was a member of the Vestry's Worship Committee. Lent is an especially busy time, whereby the Committee coordinates with Reverend Kellermann to organize Lenten events. They include soup suppers, Stations of the Cross and the Easter egg hunt.
Thank you, Leslie, for having served a second, three-year term on Emmanuel's Vestry.
