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    Dear Members and Friends of Salem Lutheran Church,

    As you well know by now, our DASh strategic emphasis is in full swing.  We’re exploring ways in which we can grow in Discipleship, we’re rethinking the ways in which people are Assimilated into the life and ministry of our congregation, and we’re looking for new opportunities to be of Service to others with the power of the Gospel.  More and more members of the congregation are getting involved in Discipleship, Assimilation, and Service, and we can only praise the Holy Spirit for moving so powerfully among us.  And yet, there’s still that little “h” in DASh.  What’s to become of that?
    The “h” of course stands for “home,” at least for this year.  Next year it will stand for “hospitality.”  The year after that it could stand for “hope,” and so on.  While our congregation will remain focused on Discipleship, Assimilation, and Service over the next several years or more, the flexibility of the “h” allows us to adjust our focus somewhat to meet the new challenges of each new year.
    I suspect some of us are a little confused about what “home” means as part of DASh.  How does it fit in with Discipleship, Assimilation, and Service?  The problem is that there’s not actually one right answer to that question.  Every group and individual within the congregation has to answer that question for themselves.  But permit me to make some suggestions.
    In general, practicing “home” means making a place for people to belong.  It means creating a strong base in which people are affirmed, allowed to venture forth into the world, and welcomed back upon their return.  Conversely, what it does not mean is tearing others apart emotionally.  It does not mean controlling people.  It does not mean ignoring those returning to the home, or keeping them out.  And above all, it does not mean creating sub-groups (or “cliques”) that turn their backs on those whom they consider to be unworthy of being part of their inner circle.
    Thus “home” really gets to the heart of the culture of our congregation.  Is this congregation going to continue to develop a culture of affirmation, of acceptance, of individuality balanced with community, and of reception?  I believe it is, and I believe that as the culture of “home” continues to develop through the power of the Holy Spirit it will greatly strengthen our ability to reach and even surpass all of our goals in Discipleship, Assimilation, and Service.

    In Christ,
    Pastor Jeff