June: A Month Full of Celebration, and Kingdom Work

Jul 7
3 min read

If June at the Living Church of Five Mile had a theme, it would be "full throttle." From weddings to Vacation Bible School, church camp, and powerful services, there was hardly a moment to slow down. While the month left many of us physically tired, it also left us spiritually refreshed and reminded us that there is no greater investment than pouring into the Kingdom of God.

A Beautiful Beginning 💍

June began with a special celebration as Dawson Davis and Jocelynn Newell exchanged vows surrounded by their church family. It was a beautiful reminder that God continues to write new stories within our congregation, and we are honored to celebrate life's milestones together.

Emerald Crossing: An Unforgettable VBS Adventure ☘️

No sooner had the wedding decorations been packed away than our church underwent another incredible transformation. Within days, the sanctuary became the rolling green hills, castles, and countryside of Ireland for Emerald Crossing Vacation Bible School.

Throughout the week, children journeyed through Psalm 23, learning that Jesus is our Good Shepherd who faithfully leads, protects, and provides for His people.

Of course, VBS wouldn't be complete without Pastor Don White's annual water battle. Known for making sure every VBS ends with plenty of laughter, Pastor upgraded this year to a backpack-powered, Gatling-style super soaker. The children, however, came prepared with a plan of their own. By Friday evening, Pastor's shoes were soaked, and it was safe to say the kids had accomplished their mission!

Behind every decorated hallway, every game, every lesson, and every song stood an incredible team of volunteers. Under the leadership of Jennifer Hutchens and Hannah Byrd, along with countless dedicated workers, our church was transformed into an immersive experience that made God's Word come alive. Their creativity, sacrifice, and countless hours of preparation created memories that these children will carry with them for years to come.

Campground Hills 🏕️

Before Pastor's shoes had even finished drying, many of our church family headed to Kids Camp and Teen Camp.

Our Youth Pastor, Jennifer Hutchens, had the honor of serving as the Kids Camp Morning Speaker. Alongside Mr. Bones, she presented the Gospel in a way that captured the hearts of even the youngest campers. Jennifer has a unique gift for teaching children, and we were blessed to see that gift impact young lives from across the CGMA.

Our church also had much to celebrate in the talent competitions:

David Hutchens earned 1st Place in Instrumental Soloist.
Eden Hutchens and David Hutchens earned 3rd Place in Instrumental Group.
Jayden received the Most Christ-like Camper Award.
Chloe Gillham earned 1st place in Vocal Soloist
Noel Gillham earned 2nd place in Vocal Soloist
The Five Mile Youth Praise Team brought home 1st Place in Group Singing.
And yes... our teens even managed to take 1st Place in Dodgeball, though some of us are still thankful we weren't on the receiving end of one of Noel Gillham's throws!

While awards are exciting, what mattered most was seeing young people encounter God, deepen their faith, and return home on fire for Him.

Powerful Messages Throughout the Month 🔥

June also blessed us with several encouraging messages from the pulpit.

Rev. Taylor Jimenez challenged us not to allow the enemy to keep us bound by two of his greatest weapons: shame and guilt. Through Christ, we are forgiven, restored, and called to walk in freedom.

District Overseer Bishop Wayne Ison visited what he affectionately calls his second home church and delivered a timely message about becoming true yoked fellows, believers who faithfully labor together in unity for the work of God's Kingdom.

We closed the month with Sister Maelyn Gregory, whose passion from Teen Camp overflowed into her message. She asked a simple but searching question:

"What is filling your cup?"

She reminded us that when we let go of worldly distractions and empty pursuits, God is faithful to fill our lives with His presence, His peace, and His purpose.

Looking Ahead ✨

By the end of June, many of us were physically exhausted but spiritually renewed. The countless hours of serving, teaching, decorating, traveling, and ministering were more than worth it because lives were touched and seeds were planted for eternity.

As we step into July, our prayer is that the fire God has ignited will continue to burn brightly not only within our church but throughout our community.

Until next time, keep adding fuel to the flames of revival.