Making Pickles, Growing Together
Dear Friends in Christ,
July was an unusually hot month, but during our pickle project, we were blessed with a stretch of cooler weather. It made the work much more enjoyable and comfortable for everyone.
Our pickle project is a long-standing tradition in our church. It is more than just making pickles. It is an important ministry that helps prepare for our Christmas Bazaar. The money raised supports our church's ministries, and part of it also helps people in our community. Working together reminded us that even a simple task can become a meaningful act of love and service.
As always, church members and friends came together to help. Some prepared the cucumbers, others filled the jars, and others helped with the final canning process. As we worked side by side, we shared stories, laughed together, and enjoyed each other's company. Watching everyone work together warmed my heart.
This year, I had the opportunity to join others in preparing the cucumbers for the first time. As we worked together, I found myself thinking about making kimchi in Korea. Kimchi is an essential part of Korean meals. In many Korean churches, people gather each winter to make kimchi together for fellowship meals. We often made a little extra to share with neighbors who were in need. What I remember most is not the kimchi itself, but the conversations, the laughter, and the friendships that grew as we worked together.
Our pickle project reminded me of those days. Although we come from different cultures and speak different languages, there is something special about people coming together to make something with their own hands. It is not just about making pickles. It is about building relationships, sharing life, and growing as a community.
The Bible tells us that the church is the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12–27). Just as each part of the body has its own purpose, every person in the church has a role to play. Some serve in ways that everyone can see, while others serve quietly behind the scenes. Every act of service matters, and God uses each one to strengthen His church. Our pickle project was another reminder of the joy of serving together and the blessing of belonging to the body of Christ.
August is a time when summer begins to give way to a new season. My prayer is that the joy and fellowship we shared during the pickle project will continue in our worship, our ministries, and our daily lives. May we continue to encourage one another, serve one another, and grow together in faith as God has called us to do.
Thank you to everyone who took part in the pickle project. I am also grateful for all who support our church through your prayers, your service, and your faithful presence.
May God's peace and grace be with you and your family each day.
In Christ,
Pastor Hyuntae Kim, Ph.D.
