It’s been a active summer - by Rod Kalajainen

On July 1, I began my 28th year as your Pastor - my 38th year overall in the West Michigan Annual Conference. We had another successful run of Monday night worship services – averaging 92 over the first 13 weeks.

I continued to meet with pastors and leaders from various churches in both West Michigan and Detroit Annual Conferences – serving as a Ministry Coach and Consultant.

Our youngest daughter, Whitney, was married here at Redeemer on August 14. And we welcomed Stephen along with Logan and Raelyn into our family. Jan and I celebrated 40 years of marriage on August 23. 

I spent a week at Christian Athletic Camp (CAC) – a sports camp for over 200 middle school and high school youth and 40+ staff – that I have been involved in either as a coach or administrator for 37 years. I’ve been asked why I’m still involved.

I wish all of you reading this could experience CAC. Then you would understand completely. It is very rewarding – not only to see what God has been able to do over the years because of strong leadership and a dedicated staff to bring life change to so many students – but to have had a part in it. God’s hand has truly been on this ministry.

Jan and I have been reflecting lately on how blessed our lives are. We are busy and we’re at the age when many people think it’s time to slow down. But for us, being involved in building the Kingdom of God is still our top priority. We want to make the most of the time God has given us…and there is no greater investment of our time and energy than to “Connect people with the love and life of Jesus Christ.”