2 Reasons to Celebrate // M-Note 7.4.2026

There are TWO big things happening this weekend.

First, today is obviously an important one for our country. On its 250th anniversary, I am reminded of both the power and promise of the United States. Living here is a blessing and an ongoing mission, something we ought to be grateful for even as we accept the work of ensuring this country’s blessings for all people. Today, I hope each of us can give thanks for living in this place, and accept the challenge of continuing to make it a place of freedom and flourishing for all people.

Second, another reason to celebrate is specific to our church. The Gathering officially has two new site pastors who joined our team this past week. Our new Webster Site Pastor Steve Lefebvre, his wife Heather and their three kids are now officially residents of Shrewsbury! He is even marching today in the Webster Groves parade along with our Webster site. Our new West County Site Pastor Roxy Delong, her husband Luke, and their two kids have just moved in to Manchester and she has already met with the West Country launch team.

Both of them are highly gifted pastors and eager to meet as many of you as possible. Now, it is our turn to welcome them. Here is what I need most from you. Plan to be in worship in the month of July. Webster site folks, Steve will have his first Sunday at the Webster site on July 12. I will be preaching live that day as well as introducing him to the congregation. Please plan to be at either the 9:30 or 11am service. Whether you come every week or it has been a while, the greatest gift you can give him and his family is showing up to welcome him and support the new chapter that is beginning at Webster.

West Country folks, Roxy will be reaching out to try to meet as many of you as possible. Whether you’ve been engaged in the new site, or have been waiting, now is the time to support her and this new effort from our church. I hope you accept her invitation to meet and get to know her as she begins her time here at The Gathering.

I hope you all have fun celebrating today and remember, tomorrow is Sunday. Please plan to be in worship, and I can’t wait to see you.

Peace,

Matt

P.S. On July 12, I will be starting a new series on Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount called Heaven on Earth. I can’t wait to dive into the most famous sermon ever preached and talk about Jesus’ vision for how we should be living. It is especially applicable given everything that we are facing as individuals and as a country. If you want to get a head start, read the sermon in Matthew 5-7. You can find a link to it here.