HFA Weekly Newsletter
1.25.2026
There is something sacred about the first snowfall.The world slows down. Noise is softened. Rough edges are covered. What was once ordinary suddenly becomes beautiful. Streets, fields, rooftops—everything looks new again beneath a blanket of white.

Snow has a way of reminding us that God still speaks in quiet ways.

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” — Isaiah 1:18

A Picture of Grace

Snow does not argue with the ground beneath it. It simply falls—freely, gently, generously. In the same way, God’s grace is not earned; it is given. It covers what is broken, worn, and stained, and declares it clean. Winter shows us that God is never absent, even when things seem still or cold. Beneath the snow, life is being protected, prepared, and preserved for what is to come.

God at Work in the Stillness

Snow invites us to pause. To breathe. To listen. To notice.

In Scripture, God often does His deepest work in quiet seasons—when hearts are still enough to hear Him. Snowy days remind us that rest is holy and waiting is not wasted.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10

A Call to Reflect

As you look out at the white landscape today, let it stir your heart: Where might God be offering you a fresh start? What burdens is He inviting you to lay down? How can you reflect His purity, peace, and grace to others?

A Prayer for the Season

Lord, thank You for the beauty You paint across your creation. As the world grows quiet after the snow has feallen, help us to hear Your voice more clearly. Cover our hearts with Your grace. Renew our spirits. Teach us to trust You in every season. Amen.


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

As we move further into this new year, I am struck by the beauty of the season God has placed us in. It is a season of expectation. To live with expectation is not merely to wait for time to pass; it is to wait with a “stretched-out neck,” eagerly looking for where God is already moving.

Whether you are in a mountaintop moment or a valley of testing, remember that our God is a promise-keeper. I want to personally challenge each of you to remain steadfast in your daily Bible reading. The Word of God is not just a book of history; it is “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12).

When we neglect the Scriptures, we try to fight spiritual battles on an empty stomach. I encourage you to set aside even fifteen minutes this week to sit with the Word. Let it anchor your soul and sharpen your vision for what He is doing in your life.

The world around us can feel turbulent, but our foundation is unshakable. To stay strong in faith means to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of it all. Strength doesn’t always look like a loud victory; sometimes, it is the quiet resolve to trust God one more day. If you feel weary, lean into the grace that is sufficient for you. You are not walking this path alone.

Finally, I am so excited about our upcoming Marriage Weekend on February 7th (9-noon) and 8th. Marriage is one of the most profound mirrors of Christ’s love for the Church, yet it requires intentional cultivation.

Whether you have been married for five months or fifty years, we invite you to join us for this special time of refreshment, laughter, and biblical teaching. Let’s make the choice to invest in our homes so that they may be beacons of light in our community.

Expect great things from God this week.  We are praying for you, and we can’t wait to see how He moves in our midst.

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

The “Story of Redemption” Annual Plan

Quarter 1: Foundations & The Covenant

January: The Beginnings. Genesis and Job. (See the creation of the world and the oldest questions of human suffering).

February: Deliverance. Exodus and Leviticus. (The escape from Egypt and the blueprint for holiness).

March: The Wilderness. Numbers and Deuteronomy. (Lessons on faithfulness and preparing to enter the promised land).


Quarter 2: Kingdoms & Wisdom

April: Possession & Judges. Joshua, Judges, Ruth. (The struggle for the land and the need for a King).

May: The United Kingdom. 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 Chronicles. (The lives of Saul, David, and Solomon).

June: Heart & Soul. Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon. (Taking a break from history to focus on prayer and wisdom).


Quarter 3: Exile & The Prophets

July: The Divided Kingdom. 1 & 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles. (The rise and fall of Israel and Judah).

August: Major Prophets. Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations. (Warnings of judgment and promises of a future Savior).

September: Minor Prophets & Return. Ezekiel, Daniel, and the “Book of the Twelve” (Hosea–Malachi).


Quarter 4: The Messiah & The Church

October: The Gospels. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. (The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus).

November: The Early Church. Acts, Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians. (The spread of the Gospel and the core of Christian doctrine).

December: The Epistles & Revelation. Ephesians through Jude, and Revelation. (Instructions for living and the ultimate hope of Christ’s return).


3 Tips for “Meaningful” Reading

1. The “One Verse” Rule: Don’t just read to check a box. Every day, pick one verse that stood out and write it down or meditate on it during your commute/lunch.

2. Use a “Bridge” Prayer: Before you open the book, pray: “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law” (Psalm 119:18).

3. Don’t Panic if You Fall Behind: If you miss three days, don’t try to read 12 chapters in one sitting. Just start where you are today. The goal is transformation, not just completion.

Week 6 – “The Light Breaks Through”

Only 19 Days Until Christmas!

“The true Light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” — John 1:9


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

We’ve officially stepped into December — the month where excitement rises, calendars fill up, and hearts begin to lean in toward the miracle of Christmas. And now, with only 19 days left, we continue our countdown with anticipation and wonder.

For centuries, the world waited in darkness for the promised Messiah. But the moment Jesus entered the world, light broke through.
Not the soft glow of a candle, but a light strong enough to shatter sin, silence fear, and bring hope to the broken.

As we move deeper into this Advent season, let’s look for the Light of Christ breaking through in our own lives — in our homes, in our church, in our hearts.

Be The One with hope and joy,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Focus: “The Light Breaks Through”

Advent reminds us that God doesn’t wait for perfect conditions to work — He breaks into the darkness right where we are.

Three Truths This Week:

1. Jesus Brings Light Into Our Dark Places.

Whether it’s fear, worry, or weariness, the light of Christ reaches places nothing else can.
Christmas isn’t just a celebration — it’s an invasion of hope.

2. Light Always Wins Over Darkness.

John 1:5 says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
Darkness can resist, but it cannot defeat Jesus.

3. We Are Called to Carry His Light.

As Christmas approaches, your smile, your words, your kindness may be the light someone desperately needs.
This season isn’t about shining on our own, but reflecting His glory.


Scripture Focus This Week

  • John 1:1–14
  • Isaiah 60:1 – “Arise, shine, for your light has come…”
  • Matthew 5:14–16 – “You are the light of the world…”

Spend a few minutes this week sitting in quiet — maybe by the glow of your Christmas tree — and thank Jesus for being the Light that never dims.


Church Announcements:

  • Series Continues – “Breaking the Silence”
  • December 14 will be our kids church Christmas program.

Reflection for the Week

The world may feel dark, busy, or heavy —
but the message of Christmas is simple and unchanging:

The Light has come.
The Light is here.
The Light is breaking through.

As we count down the final 19 days, keep your eyes open.
You’ll see the light of Christ in places you never expected.

I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

— Luke 2:10 


A Note from the Pastor

As the days grow shorter and Thanksgiving draws near, we find ourselves standing on the edge of one of the most joyful seasons of the year. The Christmas lights are beginning to appear, and soon we’ll hear carols that remind us of the night heaven touched earth.

But before the celebration begins, we find ourselves in a season of waiting — waiting for gatherings, waiting for Christmas morning, waiting for promises fulfilled. Waiting isn’t always easy. Yet in God’s kingdom, waiting is never wasted.

It’s in the waiting that our faith grows and our hearts learn to trust. That’s why this week’s focus in our Countdown to Christmas is Joy in the Waiting. Because even when the answer hasn’t come, and the prayer isn’t yet fulfilled, we can still rejoice — not because everything is perfect, but because God is present.

Be The One with joy and anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Thought: Joy in the Waiting

When the angel appeared to the shepherds, the message wasn’t “Be happy because life is easy.”
It was “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

True joy doesn’t come from circumstances — it comes from Christ. And sometimes, it’s in the waiting that we discover that most deeply.

Here’s how we can practice joy this week:

Choose Joy Daily.
Joy isn’t a mood — it’s a mindset. Wake up and thank God for one thing before anything else

Stay Prayerful in the Waiting.
Philippians 4:6–7 reminds us to bring everything to God in prayer. When we pray with thanksgiving, peace follows.

Spread Joy to Others.
Send a card, make a call, or serve someone in need. When we share joy, it multiplies. Even when life feels uncertain, we can still say, “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”  

Scripture Focus:

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” — Romans 15:13

Take time this week to reflect on the ways God has shown His faithfulness in your past. Joy grows when we remember that the same God who was faithful before will be faithful again.


Church Announcements

Thanksgiving Sunday – November 23th:
Join us as we gather for a special time of worship and gratitude. It’s the perfect way to begin the Advent season with thankful hearts.

Advent Series Begins November 30th:
Invite your friends and family to our Christmas series: Breaking The Silence.” This Christmas series examines Jesus’ arrival after the “four hundred years of silence.” You will be encouraged to worship God for his faithfulness and trust in Jesus’ assured return.

There will be no Sunday Night services during the month of December. Take this time and spend it with your family and friends celebrating our King!

Don’t forget to pick up your awesome HFA apparel if you ordered it. You must pay for it before receiving it.


Reflection for the Week

Joy is not the absence of hardship — it’s the presence of Jesus.
As we count down to Christmas, let’s not rush past the waiting. Let’s rejoice in it.

Because even in the in-between moments, God is working, hearts are softening, and His promise is still true:

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…” (Isaiah 9:6)

So, keep your eyes lifted and your heart joyful —
Christmas is coming, and so is the Light of the World.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.”

— Luke 3:4

A Note from the Pastor

Can you believe we’re already in the middle of November? Thanksgiving is almost here, and right behind it — Christmas! Decorations are going up, plans are being made, and before we know it, the calendar will turn to December.

But before the rush of the season sweeps us away, let’s pause for a moment. The second week of November is a perfect time to begin preparing our hearts for what Christmas is really about — not the presents, but His presence.

As John the Baptist once said, “Prepare the way for the Lord.” That’s our calling too — to make room for Jesus in our lives, homes, and hearts.

So as we continue our Countdown to Christmas, let’s not just count the days — let’s make the days count.

Be The One with love and anticipation,

Pastor Shannon  


Countdown Thought: Preparing the Way

When John the Baptist began preaching, he wasn’t just talking about clearing a road; he was talking about clearing the heart. Our world is noisy, busy, and full of distractions — and it’s easy to let that noise crowd out the quiet joy of Christ. Preparing for Christmas isn’t about perfect decorations or finding the best gifts. It’s about making space for Jesus in our everyday lives.

Here’s how we can begin:

Slow down before the season speeds up.
Take a few moments each day for prayer and Scripture. Even five minutes can re-center your heart.
Notice God’s blessings now.
Before we rush into Christmas lists, let’s make a gratitude list. What has God done in your life this year?
Reach out in love.
Maybe “preparing the way” means forgiving someone, encouraging a friend, or serving a neighbor in need.

When we do these things, we’re not just counting down to Christmas — we’re inviting Christ to come closer. 


Scripture Assignment

Take a few moments this week to read Luke 1–2. Ask God to show you something new about the miracle of Jesus’ coming.


Reflection for the Week

As we move through these final weeks of November, remember: Christmas isn’t something we rush to — it’s something we prepare for.

So let’s begin the countdown not with stress, but with stillness.

Let’s quiet our hearts, lift our eyes, and get ready for the greatest story ever told —the moment when Heaven came to Earth and God’s love took on flesh

Nov 1, 2025

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.”

Isaiah 9:2

A Note from the Pastor

It’s hard to believe it’s already November! The leaves are falling, the air is crisp, and soon the sounds of Christmas will fill the world around us. While stores are setting out decorations and holiday ads are everywhere, this is also a powerful time for us as believers to prepare our hearts for what Christmas truly means.

This year, each week’s newsletter until Christmas will be your invitation to join me in a “Countdown to Christmas.” Over the next several weeks, let’s intentionally focus on the hope, peace, joy, and love that came into the world when Jesus was born.

Before we rush into the hustle and bustle of December, November gives us a chance to slow down and look up. It’s the perfect time to realign our hearts with Christ — to remember that Christmas isn’t just a day on the calendar, but a story that changes everything.

Let’s begin the countdown together — one week, one prayer, and one act of love at a time.

Be The One with anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


The Countdown to Christmas Starts Now

1. Begin with Gratitude

Before the tinsel and trees, let’s start with thankfulness. November reminds us that a grateful heart prepares the way for a joyful Christmas.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1

Take time this week to thank God not just for what you have, but for who He is — the Giver of every good gift.


2. Watch for His Light

Time changes tonight, so as the days grow shorter and the nights darker, we are reminded of the promise that a light has come into the world. Jesus brings light into every shadow, hope into every hardship.

“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” – John 1:9

Ask God to shine His light in your life this month — in your home, your work, and your relationships.


3. Prepare Your Heart Early

Advent doesn’t start until December, but spiritual preparation begins now. Use this first week of November to refocus your priorities and make room for Jesus.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.” – Luke 3:4

Maybe that means letting go of busyness, or carving out time each day to read Scripture. Whatever it looks like for you, start preparing now.


Church Announcements

  • Tomorrow Night Sunday November 2:
    Fireside Fellowship 5pm, Firepit, Hotdogs, Smores, and games for all ages. If you want to bring chili for the hotdogs you are more than welcome to do so.
  • Tomorrow we will be announcing something special we will be doing instead our regular Thanksgiving Giveback. It be just as special, I promise.
  • Thanksgiving Series “I Give Thanks” starts tomorrow November 2.

This series looks at the thanksgiving prayers in Paul’s epistles and uses four different points of thanks that Paul offers to God as a way to inspire gratitude and praise in our hearts as we enter the Thanksgiving and holiday season.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18


Final Thought

November is more than just a month of falling leaves and pumpkin pie — it’s the doorway to the miracle of Christmas. As we step through it, let’s keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the Light of the World.

The countdown has begun… (54 days till Christmas) and it starts right now, with a grateful heart and an eager spirit.

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.”Ecclesiastes 3:1 

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, we’re reminded that life is made up of seasons—both in nature and in our walk with God. Just as we can’t rush spring or hold back autumn, we can’t always control the seasons of our lives. But what we can do is trust the One who holds every season in His hands. 

Maybe you’re in a season of growth, where God is planting new dreams in your heart. Or maybe you’re in a season of pruning, where He’s gently removing what no longer bears fruit. Some of us might be in a season of rest, where God says, “Be still and know that I am God.” 

No matter what season you find yourself in, remember this: every season has a purpose. Every change carries a promise. And through it all, God remains faithful. 

As a church, we too are moving through seasons. We’ve seen God bring new faces, stir up new ministries, and breathe fresh life into familiar places. With each change, He is preparing us for what’s next—calling us to deeper unity, greater faith, and renewed passion for His mission. 

So let’s embrace this season together. Let’s thank God for what He’s done and trust Him for what’s to come. Because even when the seasons change… our God never does. 

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon


A Note from Pastor’s Desk:
Church family, as we enter this new season, I’m filled with gratitude for each of you. I see God at work in so many ways—through your faithfulness, your service, and your love for one another. My prayer is that we won’t just watch this season change, but that we’ll grow through it together. Let’s continue to seek God’s will and stay sensitive to what He’s doing among us. Be The One, because the best is still ahead!

Over the past few months, I have been reading and reflecting on a book titled “The Great Dechurching.” The data and stories in that book have caused me to pause and ask hard questions:

Why are so many people stepping away from the church?

What role might we be playing — and what role can we play — in inviting people back?

This edition of our newsletter is dedicated to exploring insights from the book. My hope is that these reflections will stir our hearts, sharpen our mission, and deepen our love — not just for those who are already here, but for those who once were, or who might be in the future.

Let me just make things clear here, I know and recognize that this is a book written by two men, and they have done a lot of work researching and writing for this book. I appreciate and honor their work. Within this newsletter are a lot of my own takeaways, but I also lean on others and their research as well. Please take that into consideration while reading this newsletter.

Nevertheless, there is a pandemic within the church and we have to do something about it. Are you ready?  


What is “The Great Dechurching?”

  • The authors argue that America is undergoing the largest and fastest religious shift in its history — but in reverse of revival.
  • Roughly 40 million Americans have left church attendance over the past 25 years. 
  • For the first time in decades, the number of adults who do not belong to a church outpaces those who do. 

The book’s project is not just diagnostic — it’s also strategic. It seeks to understand who is leaving, why, and what might lead some to return.


Profiles of the Dechurched

One of the strengths of The Great Dechurching is how it uses research and composite profiles to make the trends more human. The authors identify several major “types” of dechurched evangelicals. 

ProfileDescriptionKey Features / Considerations
Cultural ChristiansThe largest subsetThey often hold weak doctrinal convictions, drifted out through life rhythms more than crisis, but many are open to returning. 
Dechurched Mainstream EvangelicalsLifelong believers who stopped attendingThey retain orthodox beliefs, but lost the habit (especially after life transitions like moving). 
ExvangelicalsIntentional, sometimes permanent, departureMany cite deep hurt, trauma, or disillusionment with church culture. 
Dechurched BIPOCThose whose dechurching is shaped by race, culture, and identityTheir experience may include feeling marginalized, culturally out of place, or unheard. 
Dechurched Mainline / Catholic & ProtestantNot exclusively evangelicalThe broader shift includes those from mainline and historic churches too. 

Takeaway: The reasons people leave are varied — not all hurt, not all rebellion. Many simply drifted. And for many, an invitation or relational bridge could make all the difference. 


Why Are People Leaving? (and What’s Pulling Them Away)

The authors categorize motivations into beliefs, behavior, and belonging — the three “Bs.” 

1. Beliefs

  • Some feel the church no longer answers their doubts or questions.
  • Others see inconsistency between what the church preaches and how it acts.
  • Political polarization and misuse of authority have also driven disillusionment. 

2. Behavior

  • Life transitions (moving, jobs, marriage, kids) disrupt habits.
  • Attendance became inconvenient.
  • The “inertia effect” — once someone steps away, it becomes easier to stay away.

3. Belonging

  • Many left because they never felt loved, accepted, or known. 
  • Some say the church felt foreign or culturally distant.
  • The deepest barrier may not be theological, but relational.

One especially sobering insight: “casual dechurching” is more common than one might expect. Many people slide away, not because of a crisis of faith, but simply because life changes gradually pull them apart from the church.


Reasons for Hope

Despite the sobering trends, The Great Dechurching is not a book of despair. It offers hope and direction. Here are some of the key encouragements:

  • About 51% of dechurched evangelicals say they might return someday. 
  • Many maintain orthodox beliefs; the shift is often more about habit and relational connection than doctrinal abandonment. 
  • Belonging, more than persuasion, is often the “hinge” on which a return decision rests.
  • The authors call for relational wisdom — posture marked by quiet, calm curiosity — as a better way to engage than debate or coercion.
  • The church is invited into exile — to lose its grip on power, to serve from the margins, and to rediscover dependence on God’s grace.

Questions for Reflection for our Families

  1. Can you think of someone in your life who has drifted away from church? What might be their story?
  2. Which of the three “Bs” (believe, behave, belong) do you sense we struggle with most as a congregation?
  3. What might it look like for us to cultivate relational wisdom in how we talk and live together?
  4. How might we re-imagine our practices so that belonging is built in, especially for newcomers or those unsure?
  5. As a church, are there places where we’ve prioritized power or prestige over humility and service?

What You Can Do

How you can help:

  • Identify one person in your social circle who has drifted away, and extend a personal, low-pressure invitation — “I miss you; would you come with me this Sunday?”
  • Be intentional about friendships across generations. Invest time in people who are less familiar or less like you.
  • Pray for humility in our church — that we would listen more than lecture, serve more than command.
  • If you have gifts in hospitality, visitation, or relational ministry, Please let the Pastoral team know.

Closing Word

Let us not approach this moment with fear or despair, but with humility, hope, and resolve. If The Great Dechurching can teach anything, it is that much of what divides is healed through presencelistening, and steadfast love. The church is not a show, but a family. And every member matters. 

After seeing these reports, I’m thrilled to share that our story looks very different. We are in the midst of revival! It may not match what others define as revival, but lives are being changed, people are coming home to the church, and hearts are being awakened to a real relationship with Jesus Christ.

May God in his grace continue to draw many back, and may he continue to draw us ever more deeply into his heart of compassion and wisdom.

Don’t forget to Be The One!

Pastor Shannon

“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.”

Ezekiel 22:30

God is still looking for people who will stand in the gap—people who will intercede, serve, love, and live faithfully so that others can come to know Christ. Standing in the gap means being willing to step in where there’s a need, to pray where there’s a burden, and to fight spiritually for those who cannot fight for themselves.

This month, let’s ask ourselves: Where is God calling me to stand in the gap? It could be for your family, for a neighbor, for our church, for our nation, or for someone who doesn’t yet know Christ. 


Prayer Focus

This month, let’s focus our prayers on:

  • Families in our church who are struggling.
  • Our community leaders, that they may have wisdom.
  • The next generation, that they may encounter God’s truth.
  • Revival in our homes, our city, and our nation. 

Scripture

“And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land…” (Ezekiel 22:30)

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) 


Church News

Sermon Series: Living in the Last Days, ends this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service last Sunday: We celebrated 8 baptisms and i am continuing to receive  testimonies messages of great reports throughout the week.

Fall Fest: This might look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Thought

Standing in the gap is not always glamorous—it often happens in the secret place of prayer or in quiet acts of love. But heaven notices. Let’s be a church that stands strong, together, in the gap for others. 

Remember to Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.”

Matthew 5:6

All across history, every great move of God began with a hunger that stirred in the hearts of His people. When men and women longed for more than routine, more than religion, and cried out for the living presence of God—He responded.

We are living in a time when distractions are everywhere, but there is a mighty wave of spiritual hunger rising. People are realizing that nothing in this world can satisfy the soul like Jesus. This hunger is not a weakness—it is an invitation to be filled.

Are you hungry for a deeper move of God in your life, your family, and our church? Let’s position ourselves in prayer, worship, and obedience so that when the wave of His Spirit comes, we are ready to be swept up in His power. 


Devotional Thought

Hunger is a gift. It proves you were made for more than what this world offers. God promises to fill those who seek Him with all their heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

Revival is never accidental—it comes when God’s people are desperate for His presence. Just like waves in the ocean, God’s Spirit moves in power and in timing. Hunger creates the conditions for the wave to rise.  

How Do We Stir Our Hunger?

Pray daily – Not just for needs, but for His presence.

Fast – Lay something down to show God your desire for Him above all else.

Worship – Even when you don’t “feel it,” worship draws His Spirit close.

Expect – Believe that God is ready to move here and now. 


Church News

Our Wednesday Nights are exploding!

The last several midweek services have been nothing short of Amazing! If you haven’t attended you are missing out. We have been averaging close to 150 each week; 80-100 kids and youth. I want to encourage you to bring your kids, your neighbors kids and yourself to come experience an HFA midweek. You will not be disappointed.

Sermon Series. The current series: Living in the Last Days continues this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service this coming Sunday AM. If you want to be baptized, please let Pastor Shannon know. Bring a change of clothes (nothing white) and a towel.

Fall Fest. This night may look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Encouragement

The world is hungry for entertainment, success, and pleasure — but the church must be hungry for the living God. When a body of believers hungers together, God pours out His Spirit in ways that change communities, families, and nations.

Let’s Be that church. Let’s Be that people. Let’s ride the mighty wave of hunger into a fresh move of God! 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

HFA Weekly Newsletter
1.25.2026
There is something sacred about the first snowfall.The world slows down. Noise is softened. Rough edges are covered. What was once ordinary suddenly becomes beautiful. Streets, fields, rooftops—everything looks new again beneath a blanket of white.

Snow has a way of reminding us that God still speaks in quiet ways.

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” — Isaiah 1:18

A Picture of Grace

Snow does not argue with the ground beneath it. It simply falls—freely, gently, generously. In the same way, God’s grace is not earned; it is given. It covers what is broken, worn, and stained, and declares it clean. Winter shows us that God is never absent, even when things seem still or cold. Beneath the snow, life is being protected, prepared, and preserved for what is to come.

God at Work in the Stillness

Snow invites us to pause. To breathe. To listen. To notice.

In Scripture, God often does His deepest work in quiet seasons—when hearts are still enough to hear Him. Snowy days remind us that rest is holy and waiting is not wasted.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10

A Call to Reflect

As you look out at the white landscape today, let it stir your heart: Where might God be offering you a fresh start? What burdens is He inviting you to lay down? How can you reflect His purity, peace, and grace to others?

A Prayer for the Season

Lord, thank You for the beauty You paint across your creation. As the world grows quiet after the snow has feallen, help us to hear Your voice more clearly. Cover our hearts with Your grace. Renew our spirits. Teach us to trust You in every season. Amen.


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

As we move further into this new year, I am struck by the beauty of the season God has placed us in. It is a season of expectation. To live with expectation is not merely to wait for time to pass; it is to wait with a “stretched-out neck,” eagerly looking for where God is already moving.

Whether you are in a mountaintop moment or a valley of testing, remember that our God is a promise-keeper. I want to personally challenge each of you to remain steadfast in your daily Bible reading. The Word of God is not just a book of history; it is “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12).

When we neglect the Scriptures, we try to fight spiritual battles on an empty stomach. I encourage you to set aside even fifteen minutes this week to sit with the Word. Let it anchor your soul and sharpen your vision for what He is doing in your life.

The world around us can feel turbulent, but our foundation is unshakable. To stay strong in faith means to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of it all. Strength doesn’t always look like a loud victory; sometimes, it is the quiet resolve to trust God one more day. If you feel weary, lean into the grace that is sufficient for you. You are not walking this path alone.

Finally, I am so excited about our upcoming Marriage Weekend on February 7th (9-noon) and 8th. Marriage is one of the most profound mirrors of Christ’s love for the Church, yet it requires intentional cultivation.

Whether you have been married for five months or fifty years, we invite you to join us for this special time of refreshment, laughter, and biblical teaching. Let’s make the choice to invest in our homes so that they may be beacons of light in our community.

Expect great things from God this week.  We are praying for you, and we can’t wait to see how He moves in our midst.

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

The “Story of Redemption” Annual Plan

Quarter 1: Foundations & The Covenant

January: The Beginnings. Genesis and Job. (See the creation of the world and the oldest questions of human suffering).

February: Deliverance. Exodus and Leviticus. (The escape from Egypt and the blueprint for holiness).

March: The Wilderness. Numbers and Deuteronomy. (Lessons on faithfulness and preparing to enter the promised land).


Quarter 2: Kingdoms & Wisdom

April: Possession & Judges. Joshua, Judges, Ruth. (The struggle for the land and the need for a King).

May: The United Kingdom. 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 Chronicles. (The lives of Saul, David, and Solomon).

June: Heart & Soul. Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon. (Taking a break from history to focus on prayer and wisdom).


Quarter 3: Exile & The Prophets

July: The Divided Kingdom. 1 & 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles. (The rise and fall of Israel and Judah).

August: Major Prophets. Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations. (Warnings of judgment and promises of a future Savior).

September: Minor Prophets & Return. Ezekiel, Daniel, and the “Book of the Twelve” (Hosea–Malachi).


Quarter 4: The Messiah & The Church

October: The Gospels. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. (The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus).

November: The Early Church. Acts, Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians. (The spread of the Gospel and the core of Christian doctrine).

December: The Epistles & Revelation. Ephesians through Jude, and Revelation. (Instructions for living and the ultimate hope of Christ’s return).


3 Tips for “Meaningful” Reading

1. The “One Verse” Rule: Don’t just read to check a box. Every day, pick one verse that stood out and write it down or meditate on it during your commute/lunch.

2. Use a “Bridge” Prayer: Before you open the book, pray: “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law” (Psalm 119:18).

3. Don’t Panic if You Fall Behind: If you miss three days, don’t try to read 12 chapters in one sitting. Just start where you are today. The goal is transformation, not just completion.

Week 6 – “The Light Breaks Through”

Only 19 Days Until Christmas!

“The true Light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” — John 1:9


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

We’ve officially stepped into December — the month where excitement rises, calendars fill up, and hearts begin to lean in toward the miracle of Christmas. And now, with only 19 days left, we continue our countdown with anticipation and wonder.

For centuries, the world waited in darkness for the promised Messiah. But the moment Jesus entered the world, light broke through.
Not the soft glow of a candle, but a light strong enough to shatter sin, silence fear, and bring hope to the broken.

As we move deeper into this Advent season, let’s look for the Light of Christ breaking through in our own lives — in our homes, in our church, in our hearts.

Be The One with hope and joy,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Focus: “The Light Breaks Through”

Advent reminds us that God doesn’t wait for perfect conditions to work — He breaks into the darkness right where we are.

Three Truths This Week:

1. Jesus Brings Light Into Our Dark Places.

Whether it’s fear, worry, or weariness, the light of Christ reaches places nothing else can.
Christmas isn’t just a celebration — it’s an invasion of hope.

2. Light Always Wins Over Darkness.

John 1:5 says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
Darkness can resist, but it cannot defeat Jesus.

3. We Are Called to Carry His Light.

As Christmas approaches, your smile, your words, your kindness may be the light someone desperately needs.
This season isn’t about shining on our own, but reflecting His glory.


Scripture Focus This Week

  • John 1:1–14
  • Isaiah 60:1 – “Arise, shine, for your light has come…”
  • Matthew 5:14–16 – “You are the light of the world…”

Spend a few minutes this week sitting in quiet — maybe by the glow of your Christmas tree — and thank Jesus for being the Light that never dims.


Church Announcements:

  • Series Continues – “Breaking the Silence”
  • December 14 will be our kids church Christmas program.

Reflection for the Week

The world may feel dark, busy, or heavy —
but the message of Christmas is simple and unchanging:

The Light has come.
The Light is here.
The Light is breaking through.

As we count down the final 19 days, keep your eyes open.
You’ll see the light of Christ in places you never expected.

I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

— Luke 2:10 


A Note from the Pastor

As the days grow shorter and Thanksgiving draws near, we find ourselves standing on the edge of one of the most joyful seasons of the year. The Christmas lights are beginning to appear, and soon we’ll hear carols that remind us of the night heaven touched earth.

But before the celebration begins, we find ourselves in a season of waiting — waiting for gatherings, waiting for Christmas morning, waiting for promises fulfilled. Waiting isn’t always easy. Yet in God’s kingdom, waiting is never wasted.

It’s in the waiting that our faith grows and our hearts learn to trust. That’s why this week’s focus in our Countdown to Christmas is Joy in the Waiting. Because even when the answer hasn’t come, and the prayer isn’t yet fulfilled, we can still rejoice — not because everything is perfect, but because God is present.

Be The One with joy and anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Thought: Joy in the Waiting

When the angel appeared to the shepherds, the message wasn’t “Be happy because life is easy.”
It was “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

True joy doesn’t come from circumstances — it comes from Christ. And sometimes, it’s in the waiting that we discover that most deeply.

Here’s how we can practice joy this week:

Choose Joy Daily.
Joy isn’t a mood — it’s a mindset. Wake up and thank God for one thing before anything else

Stay Prayerful in the Waiting.
Philippians 4:6–7 reminds us to bring everything to God in prayer. When we pray with thanksgiving, peace follows.

Spread Joy to Others.
Send a card, make a call, or serve someone in need. When we share joy, it multiplies. Even when life feels uncertain, we can still say, “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”  

Scripture Focus:

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” — Romans 15:13

Take time this week to reflect on the ways God has shown His faithfulness in your past. Joy grows when we remember that the same God who was faithful before will be faithful again.


Church Announcements

Thanksgiving Sunday – November 23th:
Join us as we gather for a special time of worship and gratitude. It’s the perfect way to begin the Advent season with thankful hearts.

Advent Series Begins November 30th:
Invite your friends and family to our Christmas series: Breaking The Silence.” This Christmas series examines Jesus’ arrival after the “four hundred years of silence.” You will be encouraged to worship God for his faithfulness and trust in Jesus’ assured return.

There will be no Sunday Night services during the month of December. Take this time and spend it with your family and friends celebrating our King!

Don’t forget to pick up your awesome HFA apparel if you ordered it. You must pay for it before receiving it.


Reflection for the Week

Joy is not the absence of hardship — it’s the presence of Jesus.
As we count down to Christmas, let’s not rush past the waiting. Let’s rejoice in it.

Because even in the in-between moments, God is working, hearts are softening, and His promise is still true:

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…” (Isaiah 9:6)

So, keep your eyes lifted and your heart joyful —
Christmas is coming, and so is the Light of the World.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.”

— Luke 3:4

A Note from the Pastor

Can you believe we’re already in the middle of November? Thanksgiving is almost here, and right behind it — Christmas! Decorations are going up, plans are being made, and before we know it, the calendar will turn to December.

But before the rush of the season sweeps us away, let’s pause for a moment. The second week of November is a perfect time to begin preparing our hearts for what Christmas is really about — not the presents, but His presence.

As John the Baptist once said, “Prepare the way for the Lord.” That’s our calling too — to make room for Jesus in our lives, homes, and hearts.

So as we continue our Countdown to Christmas, let’s not just count the days — let’s make the days count.

Be The One with love and anticipation,

Pastor Shannon  


Countdown Thought: Preparing the Way

When John the Baptist began preaching, he wasn’t just talking about clearing a road; he was talking about clearing the heart. Our world is noisy, busy, and full of distractions — and it’s easy to let that noise crowd out the quiet joy of Christ. Preparing for Christmas isn’t about perfect decorations or finding the best gifts. It’s about making space for Jesus in our everyday lives.

Here’s how we can begin:

Slow down before the season speeds up.
Take a few moments each day for prayer and Scripture. Even five minutes can re-center your heart.
Notice God’s blessings now.
Before we rush into Christmas lists, let’s make a gratitude list. What has God done in your life this year?
Reach out in love.
Maybe “preparing the way” means forgiving someone, encouraging a friend, or serving a neighbor in need.

When we do these things, we’re not just counting down to Christmas — we’re inviting Christ to come closer. 


Scripture Assignment

Take a few moments this week to read Luke 1–2. Ask God to show you something new about the miracle of Jesus’ coming.


Reflection for the Week

As we move through these final weeks of November, remember: Christmas isn’t something we rush to — it’s something we prepare for.

So let’s begin the countdown not with stress, but with stillness.

Let’s quiet our hearts, lift our eyes, and get ready for the greatest story ever told —the moment when Heaven came to Earth and God’s love took on flesh

Nov 1, 2025

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.”

Isaiah 9:2

A Note from the Pastor

It’s hard to believe it’s already November! The leaves are falling, the air is crisp, and soon the sounds of Christmas will fill the world around us. While stores are setting out decorations and holiday ads are everywhere, this is also a powerful time for us as believers to prepare our hearts for what Christmas truly means.

This year, each week’s newsletter until Christmas will be your invitation to join me in a “Countdown to Christmas.” Over the next several weeks, let’s intentionally focus on the hope, peace, joy, and love that came into the world when Jesus was born.

Before we rush into the hustle and bustle of December, November gives us a chance to slow down and look up. It’s the perfect time to realign our hearts with Christ — to remember that Christmas isn’t just a day on the calendar, but a story that changes everything.

Let’s begin the countdown together — one week, one prayer, and one act of love at a time.

Be The One with anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


The Countdown to Christmas Starts Now

1. Begin with Gratitude

Before the tinsel and trees, let’s start with thankfulness. November reminds us that a grateful heart prepares the way for a joyful Christmas.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1

Take time this week to thank God not just for what you have, but for who He is — the Giver of every good gift.


2. Watch for His Light

Time changes tonight, so as the days grow shorter and the nights darker, we are reminded of the promise that a light has come into the world. Jesus brings light into every shadow, hope into every hardship.

“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” – John 1:9

Ask God to shine His light in your life this month — in your home, your work, and your relationships.


3. Prepare Your Heart Early

Advent doesn’t start until December, but spiritual preparation begins now. Use this first week of November to refocus your priorities and make room for Jesus.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.” – Luke 3:4

Maybe that means letting go of busyness, or carving out time each day to read Scripture. Whatever it looks like for you, start preparing now.


Church Announcements

  • Tomorrow Night Sunday November 2:
    Fireside Fellowship 5pm, Firepit, Hotdogs, Smores, and games for all ages. If you want to bring chili for the hotdogs you are more than welcome to do so.
  • Tomorrow we will be announcing something special we will be doing instead our regular Thanksgiving Giveback. It be just as special, I promise.
  • Thanksgiving Series “I Give Thanks” starts tomorrow November 2.

This series looks at the thanksgiving prayers in Paul’s epistles and uses four different points of thanks that Paul offers to God as a way to inspire gratitude and praise in our hearts as we enter the Thanksgiving and holiday season.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18


Final Thought

November is more than just a month of falling leaves and pumpkin pie — it’s the doorway to the miracle of Christmas. As we step through it, let’s keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the Light of the World.

The countdown has begun… (54 days till Christmas) and it starts right now, with a grateful heart and an eager spirit.

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.”Ecclesiastes 3:1 

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, we’re reminded that life is made up of seasons—both in nature and in our walk with God. Just as we can’t rush spring or hold back autumn, we can’t always control the seasons of our lives. But what we can do is trust the One who holds every season in His hands. 

Maybe you’re in a season of growth, where God is planting new dreams in your heart. Or maybe you’re in a season of pruning, where He’s gently removing what no longer bears fruit. Some of us might be in a season of rest, where God says, “Be still and know that I am God.” 

No matter what season you find yourself in, remember this: every season has a purpose. Every change carries a promise. And through it all, God remains faithful. 

As a church, we too are moving through seasons. We’ve seen God bring new faces, stir up new ministries, and breathe fresh life into familiar places. With each change, He is preparing us for what’s next—calling us to deeper unity, greater faith, and renewed passion for His mission. 

So let’s embrace this season together. Let’s thank God for what He’s done and trust Him for what’s to come. Because even when the seasons change… our God never does. 

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon


A Note from Pastor’s Desk:
Church family, as we enter this new season, I’m filled with gratitude for each of you. I see God at work in so many ways—through your faithfulness, your service, and your love for one another. My prayer is that we won’t just watch this season change, but that we’ll grow through it together. Let’s continue to seek God’s will and stay sensitive to what He’s doing among us. Be The One, because the best is still ahead!

Over the past few months, I have been reading and reflecting on a book titled “The Great Dechurching.” The data and stories in that book have caused me to pause and ask hard questions:

Why are so many people stepping away from the church?

What role might we be playing — and what role can we play — in inviting people back?

This edition of our newsletter is dedicated to exploring insights from the book. My hope is that these reflections will stir our hearts, sharpen our mission, and deepen our love — not just for those who are already here, but for those who once were, or who might be in the future.

Let me just make things clear here, I know and recognize that this is a book written by two men, and they have done a lot of work researching and writing for this book. I appreciate and honor their work. Within this newsletter are a lot of my own takeaways, but I also lean on others and their research as well. Please take that into consideration while reading this newsletter.

Nevertheless, there is a pandemic within the church and we have to do something about it. Are you ready?  


What is “The Great Dechurching?”

  • The authors argue that America is undergoing the largest and fastest religious shift in its history — but in reverse of revival.
  • Roughly 40 million Americans have left church attendance over the past 25 years. 
  • For the first time in decades, the number of adults who do not belong to a church outpaces those who do. 

The book’s project is not just diagnostic — it’s also strategic. It seeks to understand who is leaving, why, and what might lead some to return.


Profiles of the Dechurched

One of the strengths of The Great Dechurching is how it uses research and composite profiles to make the trends more human. The authors identify several major “types” of dechurched evangelicals. 

ProfileDescriptionKey Features / Considerations
Cultural ChristiansThe largest subsetThey often hold weak doctrinal convictions, drifted out through life rhythms more than crisis, but many are open to returning. 
Dechurched Mainstream EvangelicalsLifelong believers who stopped attendingThey retain orthodox beliefs, but lost the habit (especially after life transitions like moving). 
ExvangelicalsIntentional, sometimes permanent, departureMany cite deep hurt, trauma, or disillusionment with church culture. 
Dechurched BIPOCThose whose dechurching is shaped by race, culture, and identityTheir experience may include feeling marginalized, culturally out of place, or unheard. 
Dechurched Mainline / Catholic & ProtestantNot exclusively evangelicalThe broader shift includes those from mainline and historic churches too. 

Takeaway: The reasons people leave are varied — not all hurt, not all rebellion. Many simply drifted. And for many, an invitation or relational bridge could make all the difference. 


Why Are People Leaving? (and What’s Pulling Them Away)

The authors categorize motivations into beliefs, behavior, and belonging — the three “Bs.” 

1. Beliefs

  • Some feel the church no longer answers their doubts or questions.
  • Others see inconsistency between what the church preaches and how it acts.
  • Political polarization and misuse of authority have also driven disillusionment. 

2. Behavior

  • Life transitions (moving, jobs, marriage, kids) disrupt habits.
  • Attendance became inconvenient.
  • The “inertia effect” — once someone steps away, it becomes easier to stay away.

3. Belonging

  • Many left because they never felt loved, accepted, or known. 
  • Some say the church felt foreign or culturally distant.
  • The deepest barrier may not be theological, but relational.

One especially sobering insight: “casual dechurching” is more common than one might expect. Many people slide away, not because of a crisis of faith, but simply because life changes gradually pull them apart from the church.


Reasons for Hope

Despite the sobering trends, The Great Dechurching is not a book of despair. It offers hope and direction. Here are some of the key encouragements:

  • About 51% of dechurched evangelicals say they might return someday. 
  • Many maintain orthodox beliefs; the shift is often more about habit and relational connection than doctrinal abandonment. 
  • Belonging, more than persuasion, is often the “hinge” on which a return decision rests.
  • The authors call for relational wisdom — posture marked by quiet, calm curiosity — as a better way to engage than debate or coercion.
  • The church is invited into exile — to lose its grip on power, to serve from the margins, and to rediscover dependence on God’s grace.

Questions for Reflection for our Families

  1. Can you think of someone in your life who has drifted away from church? What might be their story?
  2. Which of the three “Bs” (believe, behave, belong) do you sense we struggle with most as a congregation?
  3. What might it look like for us to cultivate relational wisdom in how we talk and live together?
  4. How might we re-imagine our practices so that belonging is built in, especially for newcomers or those unsure?
  5. As a church, are there places where we’ve prioritized power or prestige over humility and service?

What You Can Do

How you can help:

  • Identify one person in your social circle who has drifted away, and extend a personal, low-pressure invitation — “I miss you; would you come with me this Sunday?”
  • Be intentional about friendships across generations. Invest time in people who are less familiar or less like you.
  • Pray for humility in our church — that we would listen more than lecture, serve more than command.
  • If you have gifts in hospitality, visitation, or relational ministry, Please let the Pastoral team know.

Closing Word

Let us not approach this moment with fear or despair, but with humility, hope, and resolve. If The Great Dechurching can teach anything, it is that much of what divides is healed through presencelistening, and steadfast love. The church is not a show, but a family. And every member matters. 

After seeing these reports, I’m thrilled to share that our story looks very different. We are in the midst of revival! It may not match what others define as revival, but lives are being changed, people are coming home to the church, and hearts are being awakened to a real relationship with Jesus Christ.

May God in his grace continue to draw many back, and may he continue to draw us ever more deeply into his heart of compassion and wisdom.

Don’t forget to Be The One!

Pastor Shannon

“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.”

Ezekiel 22:30

God is still looking for people who will stand in the gap—people who will intercede, serve, love, and live faithfully so that others can come to know Christ. Standing in the gap means being willing to step in where there’s a need, to pray where there’s a burden, and to fight spiritually for those who cannot fight for themselves.

This month, let’s ask ourselves: Where is God calling me to stand in the gap? It could be for your family, for a neighbor, for our church, for our nation, or for someone who doesn’t yet know Christ. 


Prayer Focus

This month, let’s focus our prayers on:

  • Families in our church who are struggling.
  • Our community leaders, that they may have wisdom.
  • The next generation, that they may encounter God’s truth.
  • Revival in our homes, our city, and our nation. 

Scripture

“And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land…” (Ezekiel 22:30)

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) 


Church News

Sermon Series: Living in the Last Days, ends this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service last Sunday: We celebrated 8 baptisms and i am continuing to receive  testimonies messages of great reports throughout the week.

Fall Fest: This might look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Thought

Standing in the gap is not always glamorous—it often happens in the secret place of prayer or in quiet acts of love. But heaven notices. Let’s be a church that stands strong, together, in the gap for others. 

Remember to Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.”

Matthew 5:6

All across history, every great move of God began with a hunger that stirred in the hearts of His people. When men and women longed for more than routine, more than religion, and cried out for the living presence of God—He responded.

We are living in a time when distractions are everywhere, but there is a mighty wave of spiritual hunger rising. People are realizing that nothing in this world can satisfy the soul like Jesus. This hunger is not a weakness—it is an invitation to be filled.

Are you hungry for a deeper move of God in your life, your family, and our church? Let’s position ourselves in prayer, worship, and obedience so that when the wave of His Spirit comes, we are ready to be swept up in His power. 


Devotional Thought

Hunger is a gift. It proves you were made for more than what this world offers. God promises to fill those who seek Him with all their heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

Revival is never accidental—it comes when God’s people are desperate for His presence. Just like waves in the ocean, God’s Spirit moves in power and in timing. Hunger creates the conditions for the wave to rise.  

How Do We Stir Our Hunger?

Pray daily – Not just for needs, but for His presence.

Fast – Lay something down to show God your desire for Him above all else.

Worship – Even when you don’t “feel it,” worship draws His Spirit close.

Expect – Believe that God is ready to move here and now. 


Church News

Our Wednesday Nights are exploding!

The last several midweek services have been nothing short of Amazing! If you haven’t attended you are missing out. We have been averaging close to 150 each week; 80-100 kids and youth. I want to encourage you to bring your kids, your neighbors kids and yourself to come experience an HFA midweek. You will not be disappointed.

Sermon Series. The current series: Living in the Last Days continues this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service this coming Sunday AM. If you want to be baptized, please let Pastor Shannon know. Bring a change of clothes (nothing white) and a towel.

Fall Fest. This night may look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Encouragement

The world is hungry for entertainment, success, and pleasure — but the church must be hungry for the living God. When a body of believers hungers together, God pours out His Spirit in ways that change communities, families, and nations.

Let’s Be that church. Let’s Be that people. Let’s ride the mighty wave of hunger into a fresh move of God! 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

HFA Weekly Newsletter
1.25.2026
There is something sacred about the first snowfall.The world slows down. Noise is softened. Rough edges are covered. What was once ordinary suddenly becomes beautiful. Streets, fields, rooftops—everything looks new again beneath a blanket of white.

Snow has a way of reminding us that God still speaks in quiet ways.

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” — Isaiah 1:18

A Picture of Grace

Snow does not argue with the ground beneath it. It simply falls—freely, gently, generously. In the same way, God’s grace is not earned; it is given. It covers what is broken, worn, and stained, and declares it clean. Winter shows us that God is never absent, even when things seem still or cold. Beneath the snow, life is being protected, prepared, and preserved for what is to come.

God at Work in the Stillness

Snow invites us to pause. To breathe. To listen. To notice.

In Scripture, God often does His deepest work in quiet seasons—when hearts are still enough to hear Him. Snowy days remind us that rest is holy and waiting is not wasted.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10

A Call to Reflect

As you look out at the white landscape today, let it stir your heart: Where might God be offering you a fresh start? What burdens is He inviting you to lay down? How can you reflect His purity, peace, and grace to others?

A Prayer for the Season

Lord, thank You for the beauty You paint across your creation. As the world grows quiet after the snow has feallen, help us to hear Your voice more clearly. Cover our hearts with Your grace. Renew our spirits. Teach us to trust You in every season. Amen.


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

As we move further into this new year, I am struck by the beauty of the season God has placed us in. It is a season of expectation. To live with expectation is not merely to wait for time to pass; it is to wait with a “stretched-out neck,” eagerly looking for where God is already moving.

Whether you are in a mountaintop moment or a valley of testing, remember that our God is a promise-keeper. I want to personally challenge each of you to remain steadfast in your daily Bible reading. The Word of God is not just a book of history; it is “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12).

When we neglect the Scriptures, we try to fight spiritual battles on an empty stomach. I encourage you to set aside even fifteen minutes this week to sit with the Word. Let it anchor your soul and sharpen your vision for what He is doing in your life.

The world around us can feel turbulent, but our foundation is unshakable. To stay strong in faith means to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of it all. Strength doesn’t always look like a loud victory; sometimes, it is the quiet resolve to trust God one more day. If you feel weary, lean into the grace that is sufficient for you. You are not walking this path alone.

Finally, I am so excited about our upcoming Marriage Weekend on February 7th (9-noon) and 8th. Marriage is one of the most profound mirrors of Christ’s love for the Church, yet it requires intentional cultivation.

Whether you have been married for five months or fifty years, we invite you to join us for this special time of refreshment, laughter, and biblical teaching. Let’s make the choice to invest in our homes so that they may be beacons of light in our community.

Expect great things from God this week.  We are praying for you, and we can’t wait to see how He moves in our midst.

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

The “Story of Redemption” Annual Plan

Quarter 1: Foundations & The Covenant

January: The Beginnings. Genesis and Job. (See the creation of the world and the oldest questions of human suffering).

February: Deliverance. Exodus and Leviticus. (The escape from Egypt and the blueprint for holiness).

March: The Wilderness. Numbers and Deuteronomy. (Lessons on faithfulness and preparing to enter the promised land).


Quarter 2: Kingdoms & Wisdom

April: Possession & Judges. Joshua, Judges, Ruth. (The struggle for the land and the need for a King).

May: The United Kingdom. 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 Chronicles. (The lives of Saul, David, and Solomon).

June: Heart & Soul. Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon. (Taking a break from history to focus on prayer and wisdom).


Quarter 3: Exile & The Prophets

July: The Divided Kingdom. 1 & 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles. (The rise and fall of Israel and Judah).

August: Major Prophets. Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations. (Warnings of judgment and promises of a future Savior).

September: Minor Prophets & Return. Ezekiel, Daniel, and the “Book of the Twelve” (Hosea–Malachi).


Quarter 4: The Messiah & The Church

October: The Gospels. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. (The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus).

November: The Early Church. Acts, Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians. (The spread of the Gospel and the core of Christian doctrine).

December: The Epistles & Revelation. Ephesians through Jude, and Revelation. (Instructions for living and the ultimate hope of Christ’s return).


3 Tips for “Meaningful” Reading

1. The “One Verse” Rule: Don’t just read to check a box. Every day, pick one verse that stood out and write it down or meditate on it during your commute/lunch.

2. Use a “Bridge” Prayer: Before you open the book, pray: “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law” (Psalm 119:18).

3. Don’t Panic if You Fall Behind: If you miss three days, don’t try to read 12 chapters in one sitting. Just start where you are today. The goal is transformation, not just completion.

Week 6 – “The Light Breaks Through”

Only 19 Days Until Christmas!

“The true Light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” — John 1:9


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

We’ve officially stepped into December — the month where excitement rises, calendars fill up, and hearts begin to lean in toward the miracle of Christmas. And now, with only 19 days left, we continue our countdown with anticipation and wonder.

For centuries, the world waited in darkness for the promised Messiah. But the moment Jesus entered the world, light broke through.
Not the soft glow of a candle, but a light strong enough to shatter sin, silence fear, and bring hope to the broken.

As we move deeper into this Advent season, let’s look for the Light of Christ breaking through in our own lives — in our homes, in our church, in our hearts.

Be The One with hope and joy,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Focus: “The Light Breaks Through”

Advent reminds us that God doesn’t wait for perfect conditions to work — He breaks into the darkness right where we are.

Three Truths This Week:

1. Jesus Brings Light Into Our Dark Places.

Whether it’s fear, worry, or weariness, the light of Christ reaches places nothing else can.
Christmas isn’t just a celebration — it’s an invasion of hope.

2. Light Always Wins Over Darkness.

John 1:5 says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
Darkness can resist, but it cannot defeat Jesus.

3. We Are Called to Carry His Light.

As Christmas approaches, your smile, your words, your kindness may be the light someone desperately needs.
This season isn’t about shining on our own, but reflecting His glory.


Scripture Focus This Week

  • John 1:1–14
  • Isaiah 60:1 – “Arise, shine, for your light has come…”
  • Matthew 5:14–16 – “You are the light of the world…”

Spend a few minutes this week sitting in quiet — maybe by the glow of your Christmas tree — and thank Jesus for being the Light that never dims.


Church Announcements:

  • Series Continues – “Breaking the Silence”
  • December 14 will be our kids church Christmas program.

Reflection for the Week

The world may feel dark, busy, or heavy —
but the message of Christmas is simple and unchanging:

The Light has come.
The Light is here.
The Light is breaking through.

As we count down the final 19 days, keep your eyes open.
You’ll see the light of Christ in places you never expected.

I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

— Luke 2:10 


A Note from the Pastor

As the days grow shorter and Thanksgiving draws near, we find ourselves standing on the edge of one of the most joyful seasons of the year. The Christmas lights are beginning to appear, and soon we’ll hear carols that remind us of the night heaven touched earth.

But before the celebration begins, we find ourselves in a season of waiting — waiting for gatherings, waiting for Christmas morning, waiting for promises fulfilled. Waiting isn’t always easy. Yet in God’s kingdom, waiting is never wasted.

It’s in the waiting that our faith grows and our hearts learn to trust. That’s why this week’s focus in our Countdown to Christmas is Joy in the Waiting. Because even when the answer hasn’t come, and the prayer isn’t yet fulfilled, we can still rejoice — not because everything is perfect, but because God is present.

Be The One with joy and anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Thought: Joy in the Waiting

When the angel appeared to the shepherds, the message wasn’t “Be happy because life is easy.”
It was “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

True joy doesn’t come from circumstances — it comes from Christ. And sometimes, it’s in the waiting that we discover that most deeply.

Here’s how we can practice joy this week:

Choose Joy Daily.
Joy isn’t a mood — it’s a mindset. Wake up and thank God for one thing before anything else

Stay Prayerful in the Waiting.
Philippians 4:6–7 reminds us to bring everything to God in prayer. When we pray with thanksgiving, peace follows.

Spread Joy to Others.
Send a card, make a call, or serve someone in need. When we share joy, it multiplies. Even when life feels uncertain, we can still say, “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”  

Scripture Focus:

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” — Romans 15:13

Take time this week to reflect on the ways God has shown His faithfulness in your past. Joy grows when we remember that the same God who was faithful before will be faithful again.


Church Announcements

Thanksgiving Sunday – November 23th:
Join us as we gather for a special time of worship and gratitude. It’s the perfect way to begin the Advent season with thankful hearts.

Advent Series Begins November 30th:
Invite your friends and family to our Christmas series: Breaking The Silence.” This Christmas series examines Jesus’ arrival after the “four hundred years of silence.” You will be encouraged to worship God for his faithfulness and trust in Jesus’ assured return.

There will be no Sunday Night services during the month of December. Take this time and spend it with your family and friends celebrating our King!

Don’t forget to pick up your awesome HFA apparel if you ordered it. You must pay for it before receiving it.


Reflection for the Week

Joy is not the absence of hardship — it’s the presence of Jesus.
As we count down to Christmas, let’s not rush past the waiting. Let’s rejoice in it.

Because even in the in-between moments, God is working, hearts are softening, and His promise is still true:

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…” (Isaiah 9:6)

So, keep your eyes lifted and your heart joyful —
Christmas is coming, and so is the Light of the World.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.”

— Luke 3:4

A Note from the Pastor

Can you believe we’re already in the middle of November? Thanksgiving is almost here, and right behind it — Christmas! Decorations are going up, plans are being made, and before we know it, the calendar will turn to December.

But before the rush of the season sweeps us away, let’s pause for a moment. The second week of November is a perfect time to begin preparing our hearts for what Christmas is really about — not the presents, but His presence.

As John the Baptist once said, “Prepare the way for the Lord.” That’s our calling too — to make room for Jesus in our lives, homes, and hearts.

So as we continue our Countdown to Christmas, let’s not just count the days — let’s make the days count.

Be The One with love and anticipation,

Pastor Shannon  


Countdown Thought: Preparing the Way

When John the Baptist began preaching, he wasn’t just talking about clearing a road; he was talking about clearing the heart. Our world is noisy, busy, and full of distractions — and it’s easy to let that noise crowd out the quiet joy of Christ. Preparing for Christmas isn’t about perfect decorations or finding the best gifts. It’s about making space for Jesus in our everyday lives.

Here’s how we can begin:

Slow down before the season speeds up.
Take a few moments each day for prayer and Scripture. Even five minutes can re-center your heart.
Notice God’s blessings now.
Before we rush into Christmas lists, let’s make a gratitude list. What has God done in your life this year?
Reach out in love.
Maybe “preparing the way” means forgiving someone, encouraging a friend, or serving a neighbor in need.

When we do these things, we’re not just counting down to Christmas — we’re inviting Christ to come closer. 


Scripture Assignment

Take a few moments this week to read Luke 1–2. Ask God to show you something new about the miracle of Jesus’ coming.


Reflection for the Week

As we move through these final weeks of November, remember: Christmas isn’t something we rush to — it’s something we prepare for.

So let’s begin the countdown not with stress, but with stillness.

Let’s quiet our hearts, lift our eyes, and get ready for the greatest story ever told —the moment when Heaven came to Earth and God’s love took on flesh

Nov 1, 2025

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.”

Isaiah 9:2

A Note from the Pastor

It’s hard to believe it’s already November! The leaves are falling, the air is crisp, and soon the sounds of Christmas will fill the world around us. While stores are setting out decorations and holiday ads are everywhere, this is also a powerful time for us as believers to prepare our hearts for what Christmas truly means.

This year, each week’s newsletter until Christmas will be your invitation to join me in a “Countdown to Christmas.” Over the next several weeks, let’s intentionally focus on the hope, peace, joy, and love that came into the world when Jesus was born.

Before we rush into the hustle and bustle of December, November gives us a chance to slow down and look up. It’s the perfect time to realign our hearts with Christ — to remember that Christmas isn’t just a day on the calendar, but a story that changes everything.

Let’s begin the countdown together — one week, one prayer, and one act of love at a time.

Be The One with anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


The Countdown to Christmas Starts Now

1. Begin with Gratitude

Before the tinsel and trees, let’s start with thankfulness. November reminds us that a grateful heart prepares the way for a joyful Christmas.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1

Take time this week to thank God not just for what you have, but for who He is — the Giver of every good gift.


2. Watch for His Light

Time changes tonight, so as the days grow shorter and the nights darker, we are reminded of the promise that a light has come into the world. Jesus brings light into every shadow, hope into every hardship.

“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” – John 1:9

Ask God to shine His light in your life this month — in your home, your work, and your relationships.


3. Prepare Your Heart Early

Advent doesn’t start until December, but spiritual preparation begins now. Use this first week of November to refocus your priorities and make room for Jesus.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.” – Luke 3:4

Maybe that means letting go of busyness, or carving out time each day to read Scripture. Whatever it looks like for you, start preparing now.


Church Announcements

  • Tomorrow Night Sunday November 2:
    Fireside Fellowship 5pm, Firepit, Hotdogs, Smores, and games for all ages. If you want to bring chili for the hotdogs you are more than welcome to do so.
  • Tomorrow we will be announcing something special we will be doing instead our regular Thanksgiving Giveback. It be just as special, I promise.
  • Thanksgiving Series “I Give Thanks” starts tomorrow November 2.

This series looks at the thanksgiving prayers in Paul’s epistles and uses four different points of thanks that Paul offers to God as a way to inspire gratitude and praise in our hearts as we enter the Thanksgiving and holiday season.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18


Final Thought

November is more than just a month of falling leaves and pumpkin pie — it’s the doorway to the miracle of Christmas. As we step through it, let’s keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the Light of the World.

The countdown has begun… (54 days till Christmas) and it starts right now, with a grateful heart and an eager spirit.

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.”Ecclesiastes 3:1 

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, we’re reminded that life is made up of seasons—both in nature and in our walk with God. Just as we can’t rush spring or hold back autumn, we can’t always control the seasons of our lives. But what we can do is trust the One who holds every season in His hands. 

Maybe you’re in a season of growth, where God is planting new dreams in your heart. Or maybe you’re in a season of pruning, where He’s gently removing what no longer bears fruit. Some of us might be in a season of rest, where God says, “Be still and know that I am God.” 

No matter what season you find yourself in, remember this: every season has a purpose. Every change carries a promise. And through it all, God remains faithful. 

As a church, we too are moving through seasons. We’ve seen God bring new faces, stir up new ministries, and breathe fresh life into familiar places. With each change, He is preparing us for what’s next—calling us to deeper unity, greater faith, and renewed passion for His mission. 

So let’s embrace this season together. Let’s thank God for what He’s done and trust Him for what’s to come. Because even when the seasons change… our God never does. 

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon


A Note from Pastor’s Desk:
Church family, as we enter this new season, I’m filled with gratitude for each of you. I see God at work in so many ways—through your faithfulness, your service, and your love for one another. My prayer is that we won’t just watch this season change, but that we’ll grow through it together. Let’s continue to seek God’s will and stay sensitive to what He’s doing among us. Be The One, because the best is still ahead!

Over the past few months, I have been reading and reflecting on a book titled “The Great Dechurching.” The data and stories in that book have caused me to pause and ask hard questions:

Why are so many people stepping away from the church?

What role might we be playing — and what role can we play — in inviting people back?

This edition of our newsletter is dedicated to exploring insights from the book. My hope is that these reflections will stir our hearts, sharpen our mission, and deepen our love — not just for those who are already here, but for those who once were, or who might be in the future.

Let me just make things clear here, I know and recognize that this is a book written by two men, and they have done a lot of work researching and writing for this book. I appreciate and honor their work. Within this newsletter are a lot of my own takeaways, but I also lean on others and their research as well. Please take that into consideration while reading this newsletter.

Nevertheless, there is a pandemic within the church and we have to do something about it. Are you ready?  


What is “The Great Dechurching?”

  • The authors argue that America is undergoing the largest and fastest religious shift in its history — but in reverse of revival.
  • Roughly 40 million Americans have left church attendance over the past 25 years. 
  • For the first time in decades, the number of adults who do not belong to a church outpaces those who do. 

The book’s project is not just diagnostic — it’s also strategic. It seeks to understand who is leaving, why, and what might lead some to return.


Profiles of the Dechurched

One of the strengths of The Great Dechurching is how it uses research and composite profiles to make the trends more human. The authors identify several major “types” of dechurched evangelicals. 

ProfileDescriptionKey Features / Considerations
Cultural ChristiansThe largest subsetThey often hold weak doctrinal convictions, drifted out through life rhythms more than crisis, but many are open to returning. 
Dechurched Mainstream EvangelicalsLifelong believers who stopped attendingThey retain orthodox beliefs, but lost the habit (especially after life transitions like moving). 
ExvangelicalsIntentional, sometimes permanent, departureMany cite deep hurt, trauma, or disillusionment with church culture. 
Dechurched BIPOCThose whose dechurching is shaped by race, culture, and identityTheir experience may include feeling marginalized, culturally out of place, or unheard. 
Dechurched Mainline / Catholic & ProtestantNot exclusively evangelicalThe broader shift includes those from mainline and historic churches too. 

Takeaway: The reasons people leave are varied — not all hurt, not all rebellion. Many simply drifted. And for many, an invitation or relational bridge could make all the difference. 


Why Are People Leaving? (and What’s Pulling Them Away)

The authors categorize motivations into beliefs, behavior, and belonging — the three “Bs.” 

1. Beliefs

  • Some feel the church no longer answers their doubts or questions.
  • Others see inconsistency between what the church preaches and how it acts.
  • Political polarization and misuse of authority have also driven disillusionment. 

2. Behavior

  • Life transitions (moving, jobs, marriage, kids) disrupt habits.
  • Attendance became inconvenient.
  • The “inertia effect” — once someone steps away, it becomes easier to stay away.

3. Belonging

  • Many left because they never felt loved, accepted, or known. 
  • Some say the church felt foreign or culturally distant.
  • The deepest barrier may not be theological, but relational.

One especially sobering insight: “casual dechurching” is more common than one might expect. Many people slide away, not because of a crisis of faith, but simply because life changes gradually pull them apart from the church.


Reasons for Hope

Despite the sobering trends, The Great Dechurching is not a book of despair. It offers hope and direction. Here are some of the key encouragements:

  • About 51% of dechurched evangelicals say they might return someday. 
  • Many maintain orthodox beliefs; the shift is often more about habit and relational connection than doctrinal abandonment. 
  • Belonging, more than persuasion, is often the “hinge” on which a return decision rests.
  • The authors call for relational wisdom — posture marked by quiet, calm curiosity — as a better way to engage than debate or coercion.
  • The church is invited into exile — to lose its grip on power, to serve from the margins, and to rediscover dependence on God’s grace.

Questions for Reflection for our Families

  1. Can you think of someone in your life who has drifted away from church? What might be their story?
  2. Which of the three “Bs” (believe, behave, belong) do you sense we struggle with most as a congregation?
  3. What might it look like for us to cultivate relational wisdom in how we talk and live together?
  4. How might we re-imagine our practices so that belonging is built in, especially for newcomers or those unsure?
  5. As a church, are there places where we’ve prioritized power or prestige over humility and service?

What You Can Do

How you can help:

  • Identify one person in your social circle who has drifted away, and extend a personal, low-pressure invitation — “I miss you; would you come with me this Sunday?”
  • Be intentional about friendships across generations. Invest time in people who are less familiar or less like you.
  • Pray for humility in our church — that we would listen more than lecture, serve more than command.
  • If you have gifts in hospitality, visitation, or relational ministry, Please let the Pastoral team know.

Closing Word

Let us not approach this moment with fear or despair, but with humility, hope, and resolve. If The Great Dechurching can teach anything, it is that much of what divides is healed through presencelistening, and steadfast love. The church is not a show, but a family. And every member matters. 

After seeing these reports, I’m thrilled to share that our story looks very different. We are in the midst of revival! It may not match what others define as revival, but lives are being changed, people are coming home to the church, and hearts are being awakened to a real relationship with Jesus Christ.

May God in his grace continue to draw many back, and may he continue to draw us ever more deeply into his heart of compassion and wisdom.

Don’t forget to Be The One!

Pastor Shannon

“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.”

Ezekiel 22:30

God is still looking for people who will stand in the gap—people who will intercede, serve, love, and live faithfully so that others can come to know Christ. Standing in the gap means being willing to step in where there’s a need, to pray where there’s a burden, and to fight spiritually for those who cannot fight for themselves.

This month, let’s ask ourselves: Where is God calling me to stand in the gap? It could be for your family, for a neighbor, for our church, for our nation, or for someone who doesn’t yet know Christ. 


Prayer Focus

This month, let’s focus our prayers on:

  • Families in our church who are struggling.
  • Our community leaders, that they may have wisdom.
  • The next generation, that they may encounter God’s truth.
  • Revival in our homes, our city, and our nation. 

Scripture

“And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land…” (Ezekiel 22:30)

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) 


Church News

Sermon Series: Living in the Last Days, ends this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service last Sunday: We celebrated 8 baptisms and i am continuing to receive  testimonies messages of great reports throughout the week.

Fall Fest: This might look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Thought

Standing in the gap is not always glamorous—it often happens in the secret place of prayer or in quiet acts of love. But heaven notices. Let’s be a church that stands strong, together, in the gap for others. 

Remember to Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.”

Matthew 5:6

All across history, every great move of God began with a hunger that stirred in the hearts of His people. When men and women longed for more than routine, more than religion, and cried out for the living presence of God—He responded.

We are living in a time when distractions are everywhere, but there is a mighty wave of spiritual hunger rising. People are realizing that nothing in this world can satisfy the soul like Jesus. This hunger is not a weakness—it is an invitation to be filled.

Are you hungry for a deeper move of God in your life, your family, and our church? Let’s position ourselves in prayer, worship, and obedience so that when the wave of His Spirit comes, we are ready to be swept up in His power. 


Devotional Thought

Hunger is a gift. It proves you were made for more than what this world offers. God promises to fill those who seek Him with all their heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

Revival is never accidental—it comes when God’s people are desperate for His presence. Just like waves in the ocean, God’s Spirit moves in power and in timing. Hunger creates the conditions for the wave to rise.  

How Do We Stir Our Hunger?

Pray daily – Not just for needs, but for His presence.

Fast – Lay something down to show God your desire for Him above all else.

Worship – Even when you don’t “feel it,” worship draws His Spirit close.

Expect – Believe that God is ready to move here and now. 


Church News

Our Wednesday Nights are exploding!

The last several midweek services have been nothing short of Amazing! If you haven’t attended you are missing out. We have been averaging close to 150 each week; 80-100 kids and youth. I want to encourage you to bring your kids, your neighbors kids and yourself to come experience an HFA midweek. You will not be disappointed.

Sermon Series. The current series: Living in the Last Days continues this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service this coming Sunday AM. If you want to be baptized, please let Pastor Shannon know. Bring a change of clothes (nothing white) and a towel.

Fall Fest. This night may look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Encouragement

The world is hungry for entertainment, success, and pleasure — but the church must be hungry for the living God. When a body of believers hungers together, God pours out His Spirit in ways that change communities, families, and nations.

Let’s Be that church. Let’s Be that people. Let’s ride the mighty wave of hunger into a fresh move of God! 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

HFA Weekly Newsletter
1.25.2026
There is something sacred about the first snowfall.The world slows down. Noise is softened. Rough edges are covered. What was once ordinary suddenly becomes beautiful. Streets, fields, rooftops—everything looks new again beneath a blanket of white.

Snow has a way of reminding us that God still speaks in quiet ways.

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” — Isaiah 1:18

A Picture of Grace

Snow does not argue with the ground beneath it. It simply falls—freely, gently, generously. In the same way, God’s grace is not earned; it is given. It covers what is broken, worn, and stained, and declares it clean. Winter shows us that God is never absent, even when things seem still or cold. Beneath the snow, life is being protected, prepared, and preserved for what is to come.

God at Work in the Stillness

Snow invites us to pause. To breathe. To listen. To notice.

In Scripture, God often does His deepest work in quiet seasons—when hearts are still enough to hear Him. Snowy days remind us that rest is holy and waiting is not wasted.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10

A Call to Reflect

As you look out at the white landscape today, let it stir your heart: Where might God be offering you a fresh start? What burdens is He inviting you to lay down? How can you reflect His purity, peace, and grace to others?

A Prayer for the Season

Lord, thank You for the beauty You paint across your creation. As the world grows quiet after the snow has feallen, help us to hear Your voice more clearly. Cover our hearts with Your grace. Renew our spirits. Teach us to trust You in every season. Amen.


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

As we move further into this new year, I am struck by the beauty of the season God has placed us in. It is a season of expectation. To live with expectation is not merely to wait for time to pass; it is to wait with a “stretched-out neck,” eagerly looking for where God is already moving.

Whether you are in a mountaintop moment or a valley of testing, remember that our God is a promise-keeper. I want to personally challenge each of you to remain steadfast in your daily Bible reading. The Word of God is not just a book of history; it is “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12).

When we neglect the Scriptures, we try to fight spiritual battles on an empty stomach. I encourage you to set aside even fifteen minutes this week to sit with the Word. Let it anchor your soul and sharpen your vision for what He is doing in your life.

The world around us can feel turbulent, but our foundation is unshakable. To stay strong in faith means to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of it all. Strength doesn’t always look like a loud victory; sometimes, it is the quiet resolve to trust God one more day. If you feel weary, lean into the grace that is sufficient for you. You are not walking this path alone.

Finally, I am so excited about our upcoming Marriage Weekend on February 7th (9-noon) and 8th. Marriage is one of the most profound mirrors of Christ’s love for the Church, yet it requires intentional cultivation.

Whether you have been married for five months or fifty years, we invite you to join us for this special time of refreshment, laughter, and biblical teaching. Let’s make the choice to invest in our homes so that they may be beacons of light in our community.

Expect great things from God this week.  We are praying for you, and we can’t wait to see how He moves in our midst.

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

The “Story of Redemption” Annual Plan

Quarter 1: Foundations & The Covenant

January: The Beginnings. Genesis and Job. (See the creation of the world and the oldest questions of human suffering).

February: Deliverance. Exodus and Leviticus. (The escape from Egypt and the blueprint for holiness).

March: The Wilderness. Numbers and Deuteronomy. (Lessons on faithfulness and preparing to enter the promised land).


Quarter 2: Kingdoms & Wisdom

April: Possession & Judges. Joshua, Judges, Ruth. (The struggle for the land and the need for a King).

May: The United Kingdom. 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 Chronicles. (The lives of Saul, David, and Solomon).

June: Heart & Soul. Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon. (Taking a break from history to focus on prayer and wisdom).


Quarter 3: Exile & The Prophets

July: The Divided Kingdom. 1 & 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles. (The rise and fall of Israel and Judah).

August: Major Prophets. Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations. (Warnings of judgment and promises of a future Savior).

September: Minor Prophets & Return. Ezekiel, Daniel, and the “Book of the Twelve” (Hosea–Malachi).


Quarter 4: The Messiah & The Church

October: The Gospels. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. (The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus).

November: The Early Church. Acts, Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians. (The spread of the Gospel and the core of Christian doctrine).

December: The Epistles & Revelation. Ephesians through Jude, and Revelation. (Instructions for living and the ultimate hope of Christ’s return).


3 Tips for “Meaningful” Reading

1. The “One Verse” Rule: Don’t just read to check a box. Every day, pick one verse that stood out and write it down or meditate on it during your commute/lunch.

2. Use a “Bridge” Prayer: Before you open the book, pray: “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law” (Psalm 119:18).

3. Don’t Panic if You Fall Behind: If you miss three days, don’t try to read 12 chapters in one sitting. Just start where you are today. The goal is transformation, not just completion.

Week 6 – “The Light Breaks Through”

Only 19 Days Until Christmas!

“The true Light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” — John 1:9


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

We’ve officially stepped into December — the month where excitement rises, calendars fill up, and hearts begin to lean in toward the miracle of Christmas. And now, with only 19 days left, we continue our countdown with anticipation and wonder.

For centuries, the world waited in darkness for the promised Messiah. But the moment Jesus entered the world, light broke through.
Not the soft glow of a candle, but a light strong enough to shatter sin, silence fear, and bring hope to the broken.

As we move deeper into this Advent season, let’s look for the Light of Christ breaking through in our own lives — in our homes, in our church, in our hearts.

Be The One with hope and joy,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Focus: “The Light Breaks Through”

Advent reminds us that God doesn’t wait for perfect conditions to work — He breaks into the darkness right where we are.

Three Truths This Week:

1. Jesus Brings Light Into Our Dark Places.

Whether it’s fear, worry, or weariness, the light of Christ reaches places nothing else can.
Christmas isn’t just a celebration — it’s an invasion of hope.

2. Light Always Wins Over Darkness.

John 1:5 says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
Darkness can resist, but it cannot defeat Jesus.

3. We Are Called to Carry His Light.

As Christmas approaches, your smile, your words, your kindness may be the light someone desperately needs.
This season isn’t about shining on our own, but reflecting His glory.


Scripture Focus This Week

  • John 1:1–14
  • Isaiah 60:1 – “Arise, shine, for your light has come…”
  • Matthew 5:14–16 – “You are the light of the world…”

Spend a few minutes this week sitting in quiet — maybe by the glow of your Christmas tree — and thank Jesus for being the Light that never dims.


Church Announcements:

  • Series Continues – “Breaking the Silence”
  • December 14 will be our kids church Christmas program.

Reflection for the Week

The world may feel dark, busy, or heavy —
but the message of Christmas is simple and unchanging:

The Light has come.
The Light is here.
The Light is breaking through.

As we count down the final 19 days, keep your eyes open.
You’ll see the light of Christ in places you never expected.

I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

— Luke 2:10 


A Note from the Pastor

As the days grow shorter and Thanksgiving draws near, we find ourselves standing on the edge of one of the most joyful seasons of the year. The Christmas lights are beginning to appear, and soon we’ll hear carols that remind us of the night heaven touched earth.

But before the celebration begins, we find ourselves in a season of waiting — waiting for gatherings, waiting for Christmas morning, waiting for promises fulfilled. Waiting isn’t always easy. Yet in God’s kingdom, waiting is never wasted.

It’s in the waiting that our faith grows and our hearts learn to trust. That’s why this week’s focus in our Countdown to Christmas is Joy in the Waiting. Because even when the answer hasn’t come, and the prayer isn’t yet fulfilled, we can still rejoice — not because everything is perfect, but because God is present.

Be The One with joy and anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Thought: Joy in the Waiting

When the angel appeared to the shepherds, the message wasn’t “Be happy because life is easy.”
It was “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

True joy doesn’t come from circumstances — it comes from Christ. And sometimes, it’s in the waiting that we discover that most deeply.

Here’s how we can practice joy this week:

Choose Joy Daily.
Joy isn’t a mood — it’s a mindset. Wake up and thank God for one thing before anything else

Stay Prayerful in the Waiting.
Philippians 4:6–7 reminds us to bring everything to God in prayer. When we pray with thanksgiving, peace follows.

Spread Joy to Others.
Send a card, make a call, or serve someone in need. When we share joy, it multiplies. Even when life feels uncertain, we can still say, “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”  

Scripture Focus:

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” — Romans 15:13

Take time this week to reflect on the ways God has shown His faithfulness in your past. Joy grows when we remember that the same God who was faithful before will be faithful again.


Church Announcements

Thanksgiving Sunday – November 23th:
Join us as we gather for a special time of worship and gratitude. It’s the perfect way to begin the Advent season with thankful hearts.

Advent Series Begins November 30th:
Invite your friends and family to our Christmas series: Breaking The Silence.” This Christmas series examines Jesus’ arrival after the “four hundred years of silence.” You will be encouraged to worship God for his faithfulness and trust in Jesus’ assured return.

There will be no Sunday Night services during the month of December. Take this time and spend it with your family and friends celebrating our King!

Don’t forget to pick up your awesome HFA apparel if you ordered it. You must pay for it before receiving it.


Reflection for the Week

Joy is not the absence of hardship — it’s the presence of Jesus.
As we count down to Christmas, let’s not rush past the waiting. Let’s rejoice in it.

Because even in the in-between moments, God is working, hearts are softening, and His promise is still true:

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…” (Isaiah 9:6)

So, keep your eyes lifted and your heart joyful —
Christmas is coming, and so is the Light of the World.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.”

— Luke 3:4

A Note from the Pastor

Can you believe we’re already in the middle of November? Thanksgiving is almost here, and right behind it — Christmas! Decorations are going up, plans are being made, and before we know it, the calendar will turn to December.

But before the rush of the season sweeps us away, let’s pause for a moment. The second week of November is a perfect time to begin preparing our hearts for what Christmas is really about — not the presents, but His presence.

As John the Baptist once said, “Prepare the way for the Lord.” That’s our calling too — to make room for Jesus in our lives, homes, and hearts.

So as we continue our Countdown to Christmas, let’s not just count the days — let’s make the days count.

Be The One with love and anticipation,

Pastor Shannon  


Countdown Thought: Preparing the Way

When John the Baptist began preaching, he wasn’t just talking about clearing a road; he was talking about clearing the heart. Our world is noisy, busy, and full of distractions — and it’s easy to let that noise crowd out the quiet joy of Christ. Preparing for Christmas isn’t about perfect decorations or finding the best gifts. It’s about making space for Jesus in our everyday lives.

Here’s how we can begin:

Slow down before the season speeds up.
Take a few moments each day for prayer and Scripture. Even five minutes can re-center your heart.
Notice God’s blessings now.
Before we rush into Christmas lists, let’s make a gratitude list. What has God done in your life this year?
Reach out in love.
Maybe “preparing the way” means forgiving someone, encouraging a friend, or serving a neighbor in need.

When we do these things, we’re not just counting down to Christmas — we’re inviting Christ to come closer. 


Scripture Assignment

Take a few moments this week to read Luke 1–2. Ask God to show you something new about the miracle of Jesus’ coming.


Reflection for the Week

As we move through these final weeks of November, remember: Christmas isn’t something we rush to — it’s something we prepare for.

So let’s begin the countdown not with stress, but with stillness.

Let’s quiet our hearts, lift our eyes, and get ready for the greatest story ever told —the moment when Heaven came to Earth and God’s love took on flesh

Nov 1, 2025

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.”

Isaiah 9:2

A Note from the Pastor

It’s hard to believe it’s already November! The leaves are falling, the air is crisp, and soon the sounds of Christmas will fill the world around us. While stores are setting out decorations and holiday ads are everywhere, this is also a powerful time for us as believers to prepare our hearts for what Christmas truly means.

This year, each week’s newsletter until Christmas will be your invitation to join me in a “Countdown to Christmas.” Over the next several weeks, let’s intentionally focus on the hope, peace, joy, and love that came into the world when Jesus was born.

Before we rush into the hustle and bustle of December, November gives us a chance to slow down and look up. It’s the perfect time to realign our hearts with Christ — to remember that Christmas isn’t just a day on the calendar, but a story that changes everything.

Let’s begin the countdown together — one week, one prayer, and one act of love at a time.

Be The One with anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


The Countdown to Christmas Starts Now

1. Begin with Gratitude

Before the tinsel and trees, let’s start with thankfulness. November reminds us that a grateful heart prepares the way for a joyful Christmas.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1

Take time this week to thank God not just for what you have, but for who He is — the Giver of every good gift.


2. Watch for His Light

Time changes tonight, so as the days grow shorter and the nights darker, we are reminded of the promise that a light has come into the world. Jesus brings light into every shadow, hope into every hardship.

“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” – John 1:9

Ask God to shine His light in your life this month — in your home, your work, and your relationships.


3. Prepare Your Heart Early

Advent doesn’t start until December, but spiritual preparation begins now. Use this first week of November to refocus your priorities and make room for Jesus.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.” – Luke 3:4

Maybe that means letting go of busyness, or carving out time each day to read Scripture. Whatever it looks like for you, start preparing now.


Church Announcements

  • Tomorrow Night Sunday November 2:
    Fireside Fellowship 5pm, Firepit, Hotdogs, Smores, and games for all ages. If you want to bring chili for the hotdogs you are more than welcome to do so.
  • Tomorrow we will be announcing something special we will be doing instead our regular Thanksgiving Giveback. It be just as special, I promise.
  • Thanksgiving Series “I Give Thanks” starts tomorrow November 2.

This series looks at the thanksgiving prayers in Paul’s epistles and uses four different points of thanks that Paul offers to God as a way to inspire gratitude and praise in our hearts as we enter the Thanksgiving and holiday season.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18


Final Thought

November is more than just a month of falling leaves and pumpkin pie — it’s the doorway to the miracle of Christmas. As we step through it, let’s keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the Light of the World.

The countdown has begun… (54 days till Christmas) and it starts right now, with a grateful heart and an eager spirit.

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.”Ecclesiastes 3:1 

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, we’re reminded that life is made up of seasons—both in nature and in our walk with God. Just as we can’t rush spring or hold back autumn, we can’t always control the seasons of our lives. But what we can do is trust the One who holds every season in His hands. 

Maybe you’re in a season of growth, where God is planting new dreams in your heart. Or maybe you’re in a season of pruning, where He’s gently removing what no longer bears fruit. Some of us might be in a season of rest, where God says, “Be still and know that I am God.” 

No matter what season you find yourself in, remember this: every season has a purpose. Every change carries a promise. And through it all, God remains faithful. 

As a church, we too are moving through seasons. We’ve seen God bring new faces, stir up new ministries, and breathe fresh life into familiar places. With each change, He is preparing us for what’s next—calling us to deeper unity, greater faith, and renewed passion for His mission. 

So let’s embrace this season together. Let’s thank God for what He’s done and trust Him for what’s to come. Because even when the seasons change… our God never does. 

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon


A Note from Pastor’s Desk:
Church family, as we enter this new season, I’m filled with gratitude for each of you. I see God at work in so many ways—through your faithfulness, your service, and your love for one another. My prayer is that we won’t just watch this season change, but that we’ll grow through it together. Let’s continue to seek God’s will and stay sensitive to what He’s doing among us. Be The One, because the best is still ahead!

Over the past few months, I have been reading and reflecting on a book titled “The Great Dechurching.” The data and stories in that book have caused me to pause and ask hard questions:

Why are so many people stepping away from the church?

What role might we be playing — and what role can we play — in inviting people back?

This edition of our newsletter is dedicated to exploring insights from the book. My hope is that these reflections will stir our hearts, sharpen our mission, and deepen our love — not just for those who are already here, but for those who once were, or who might be in the future.

Let me just make things clear here, I know and recognize that this is a book written by two men, and they have done a lot of work researching and writing for this book. I appreciate and honor their work. Within this newsletter are a lot of my own takeaways, but I also lean on others and their research as well. Please take that into consideration while reading this newsletter.

Nevertheless, there is a pandemic within the church and we have to do something about it. Are you ready?  


What is “The Great Dechurching?”

  • The authors argue that America is undergoing the largest and fastest religious shift in its history — but in reverse of revival.
  • Roughly 40 million Americans have left church attendance over the past 25 years. 
  • For the first time in decades, the number of adults who do not belong to a church outpaces those who do. 

The book’s project is not just diagnostic — it’s also strategic. It seeks to understand who is leaving, why, and what might lead some to return.


Profiles of the Dechurched

One of the strengths of The Great Dechurching is how it uses research and composite profiles to make the trends more human. The authors identify several major “types” of dechurched evangelicals. 

ProfileDescriptionKey Features / Considerations
Cultural ChristiansThe largest subsetThey often hold weak doctrinal convictions, drifted out through life rhythms more than crisis, but many are open to returning. 
Dechurched Mainstream EvangelicalsLifelong believers who stopped attendingThey retain orthodox beliefs, but lost the habit (especially after life transitions like moving). 
ExvangelicalsIntentional, sometimes permanent, departureMany cite deep hurt, trauma, or disillusionment with church culture. 
Dechurched BIPOCThose whose dechurching is shaped by race, culture, and identityTheir experience may include feeling marginalized, culturally out of place, or unheard. 
Dechurched Mainline / Catholic & ProtestantNot exclusively evangelicalThe broader shift includes those from mainline and historic churches too. 

Takeaway: The reasons people leave are varied — not all hurt, not all rebellion. Many simply drifted. And for many, an invitation or relational bridge could make all the difference. 


Why Are People Leaving? (and What’s Pulling Them Away)

The authors categorize motivations into beliefs, behavior, and belonging — the three “Bs.” 

1. Beliefs

  • Some feel the church no longer answers their doubts or questions.
  • Others see inconsistency between what the church preaches and how it acts.
  • Political polarization and misuse of authority have also driven disillusionment. 

2. Behavior

  • Life transitions (moving, jobs, marriage, kids) disrupt habits.
  • Attendance became inconvenient.
  • The “inertia effect” — once someone steps away, it becomes easier to stay away.

3. Belonging

  • Many left because they never felt loved, accepted, or known. 
  • Some say the church felt foreign or culturally distant.
  • The deepest barrier may not be theological, but relational.

One especially sobering insight: “casual dechurching” is more common than one might expect. Many people slide away, not because of a crisis of faith, but simply because life changes gradually pull them apart from the church.


Reasons for Hope

Despite the sobering trends, The Great Dechurching is not a book of despair. It offers hope and direction. Here are some of the key encouragements:

  • About 51% of dechurched evangelicals say they might return someday. 
  • Many maintain orthodox beliefs; the shift is often more about habit and relational connection than doctrinal abandonment. 
  • Belonging, more than persuasion, is often the “hinge” on which a return decision rests.
  • The authors call for relational wisdom — posture marked by quiet, calm curiosity — as a better way to engage than debate or coercion.
  • The church is invited into exile — to lose its grip on power, to serve from the margins, and to rediscover dependence on God’s grace.

Questions for Reflection for our Families

  1. Can you think of someone in your life who has drifted away from church? What might be their story?
  2. Which of the three “Bs” (believe, behave, belong) do you sense we struggle with most as a congregation?
  3. What might it look like for us to cultivate relational wisdom in how we talk and live together?
  4. How might we re-imagine our practices so that belonging is built in, especially for newcomers or those unsure?
  5. As a church, are there places where we’ve prioritized power or prestige over humility and service?

What You Can Do

How you can help:

  • Identify one person in your social circle who has drifted away, and extend a personal, low-pressure invitation — “I miss you; would you come with me this Sunday?”
  • Be intentional about friendships across generations. Invest time in people who are less familiar or less like you.
  • Pray for humility in our church — that we would listen more than lecture, serve more than command.
  • If you have gifts in hospitality, visitation, or relational ministry, Please let the Pastoral team know.

Closing Word

Let us not approach this moment with fear or despair, but with humility, hope, and resolve. If The Great Dechurching can teach anything, it is that much of what divides is healed through presencelistening, and steadfast love. The church is not a show, but a family. And every member matters. 

After seeing these reports, I’m thrilled to share that our story looks very different. We are in the midst of revival! It may not match what others define as revival, but lives are being changed, people are coming home to the church, and hearts are being awakened to a real relationship with Jesus Christ.

May God in his grace continue to draw many back, and may he continue to draw us ever more deeply into his heart of compassion and wisdom.

Don’t forget to Be The One!

Pastor Shannon

“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.”

Ezekiel 22:30

God is still looking for people who will stand in the gap—people who will intercede, serve, love, and live faithfully so that others can come to know Christ. Standing in the gap means being willing to step in where there’s a need, to pray where there’s a burden, and to fight spiritually for those who cannot fight for themselves.

This month, let’s ask ourselves: Where is God calling me to stand in the gap? It could be for your family, for a neighbor, for our church, for our nation, or for someone who doesn’t yet know Christ. 


Prayer Focus

This month, let’s focus our prayers on:

  • Families in our church who are struggling.
  • Our community leaders, that they may have wisdom.
  • The next generation, that they may encounter God’s truth.
  • Revival in our homes, our city, and our nation. 

Scripture

“And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land…” (Ezekiel 22:30)

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) 


Church News

Sermon Series: Living in the Last Days, ends this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service last Sunday: We celebrated 8 baptisms and i am continuing to receive  testimonies messages of great reports throughout the week.

Fall Fest: This might look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Thought

Standing in the gap is not always glamorous—it often happens in the secret place of prayer or in quiet acts of love. But heaven notices. Let’s be a church that stands strong, together, in the gap for others. 

Remember to Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.”

Matthew 5:6

All across history, every great move of God began with a hunger that stirred in the hearts of His people. When men and women longed for more than routine, more than religion, and cried out for the living presence of God—He responded.

We are living in a time when distractions are everywhere, but there is a mighty wave of spiritual hunger rising. People are realizing that nothing in this world can satisfy the soul like Jesus. This hunger is not a weakness—it is an invitation to be filled.

Are you hungry for a deeper move of God in your life, your family, and our church? Let’s position ourselves in prayer, worship, and obedience so that when the wave of His Spirit comes, we are ready to be swept up in His power. 


Devotional Thought

Hunger is a gift. It proves you were made for more than what this world offers. God promises to fill those who seek Him with all their heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

Revival is never accidental—it comes when God’s people are desperate for His presence. Just like waves in the ocean, God’s Spirit moves in power and in timing. Hunger creates the conditions for the wave to rise.  

How Do We Stir Our Hunger?

Pray daily – Not just for needs, but for His presence.

Fast – Lay something down to show God your desire for Him above all else.

Worship – Even when you don’t “feel it,” worship draws His Spirit close.

Expect – Believe that God is ready to move here and now. 


Church News

Our Wednesday Nights are exploding!

The last several midweek services have been nothing short of Amazing! If you haven’t attended you are missing out. We have been averaging close to 150 each week; 80-100 kids and youth. I want to encourage you to bring your kids, your neighbors kids and yourself to come experience an HFA midweek. You will not be disappointed.

Sermon Series. The current series: Living in the Last Days continues this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service this coming Sunday AM. If you want to be baptized, please let Pastor Shannon know. Bring a change of clothes (nothing white) and a towel.

Fall Fest. This night may look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Encouragement

The world is hungry for entertainment, success, and pleasure — but the church must be hungry for the living God. When a body of believers hungers together, God pours out His Spirit in ways that change communities, families, and nations.

Let’s Be that church. Let’s Be that people. Let’s ride the mighty wave of hunger into a fresh move of God! 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

HFA Weekly Newsletter
1.25.2026
There is something sacred about the first snowfall.The world slows down. Noise is softened. Rough edges are covered. What was once ordinary suddenly becomes beautiful. Streets, fields, rooftops—everything looks new again beneath a blanket of white.

Snow has a way of reminding us that God still speaks in quiet ways.

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” — Isaiah 1:18

A Picture of Grace

Snow does not argue with the ground beneath it. It simply falls—freely, gently, generously. In the same way, God’s grace is not earned; it is given. It covers what is broken, worn, and stained, and declares it clean. Winter shows us that God is never absent, even when things seem still or cold. Beneath the snow, life is being protected, prepared, and preserved for what is to come.

God at Work in the Stillness

Snow invites us to pause. To breathe. To listen. To notice.

In Scripture, God often does His deepest work in quiet seasons—when hearts are still enough to hear Him. Snowy days remind us that rest is holy and waiting is not wasted.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10

A Call to Reflect

As you look out at the white landscape today, let it stir your heart: Where might God be offering you a fresh start? What burdens is He inviting you to lay down? How can you reflect His purity, peace, and grace to others?

A Prayer for the Season

Lord, thank You for the beauty You paint across your creation. As the world grows quiet after the snow has feallen, help us to hear Your voice more clearly. Cover our hearts with Your grace. Renew our spirits. Teach us to trust You in every season. Amen.


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

As we move further into this new year, I am struck by the beauty of the season God has placed us in. It is a season of expectation. To live with expectation is not merely to wait for time to pass; it is to wait with a “stretched-out neck,” eagerly looking for where God is already moving.

Whether you are in a mountaintop moment or a valley of testing, remember that our God is a promise-keeper. I want to personally challenge each of you to remain steadfast in your daily Bible reading. The Word of God is not just a book of history; it is “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12).

When we neglect the Scriptures, we try to fight spiritual battles on an empty stomach. I encourage you to set aside even fifteen minutes this week to sit with the Word. Let it anchor your soul and sharpen your vision for what He is doing in your life.

The world around us can feel turbulent, but our foundation is unshakable. To stay strong in faith means to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of it all. Strength doesn’t always look like a loud victory; sometimes, it is the quiet resolve to trust God one more day. If you feel weary, lean into the grace that is sufficient for you. You are not walking this path alone.

Finally, I am so excited about our upcoming Marriage Weekend on February 7th (9-noon) and 8th. Marriage is one of the most profound mirrors of Christ’s love for the Church, yet it requires intentional cultivation.

Whether you have been married for five months or fifty years, we invite you to join us for this special time of refreshment, laughter, and biblical teaching. Let’s make the choice to invest in our homes so that they may be beacons of light in our community.

Expect great things from God this week.  We are praying for you, and we can’t wait to see how He moves in our midst.

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

The “Story of Redemption” Annual Plan

Quarter 1: Foundations & The Covenant

January: The Beginnings. Genesis and Job. (See the creation of the world and the oldest questions of human suffering).

February: Deliverance. Exodus and Leviticus. (The escape from Egypt and the blueprint for holiness).

March: The Wilderness. Numbers and Deuteronomy. (Lessons on faithfulness and preparing to enter the promised land).


Quarter 2: Kingdoms & Wisdom

April: Possession & Judges. Joshua, Judges, Ruth. (The struggle for the land and the need for a King).

May: The United Kingdom. 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 Chronicles. (The lives of Saul, David, and Solomon).

June: Heart & Soul. Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon. (Taking a break from history to focus on prayer and wisdom).


Quarter 3: Exile & The Prophets

July: The Divided Kingdom. 1 & 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles. (The rise and fall of Israel and Judah).

August: Major Prophets. Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations. (Warnings of judgment and promises of a future Savior).

September: Minor Prophets & Return. Ezekiel, Daniel, and the “Book of the Twelve” (Hosea–Malachi).


Quarter 4: The Messiah & The Church

October: The Gospels. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. (The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus).

November: The Early Church. Acts, Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians. (The spread of the Gospel and the core of Christian doctrine).

December: The Epistles & Revelation. Ephesians through Jude, and Revelation. (Instructions for living and the ultimate hope of Christ’s return).


3 Tips for “Meaningful” Reading

1. The “One Verse” Rule: Don’t just read to check a box. Every day, pick one verse that stood out and write it down or meditate on it during your commute/lunch.

2. Use a “Bridge” Prayer: Before you open the book, pray: “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law” (Psalm 119:18).

3. Don’t Panic if You Fall Behind: If you miss three days, don’t try to read 12 chapters in one sitting. Just start where you are today. The goal is transformation, not just completion.

Week 6 – “The Light Breaks Through”

Only 19 Days Until Christmas!

“The true Light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” — John 1:9


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

We’ve officially stepped into December — the month where excitement rises, calendars fill up, and hearts begin to lean in toward the miracle of Christmas. And now, with only 19 days left, we continue our countdown with anticipation and wonder.

For centuries, the world waited in darkness for the promised Messiah. But the moment Jesus entered the world, light broke through.
Not the soft glow of a candle, but a light strong enough to shatter sin, silence fear, and bring hope to the broken.

As we move deeper into this Advent season, let’s look for the Light of Christ breaking through in our own lives — in our homes, in our church, in our hearts.

Be The One with hope and joy,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Focus: “The Light Breaks Through”

Advent reminds us that God doesn’t wait for perfect conditions to work — He breaks into the darkness right where we are.

Three Truths This Week:

1. Jesus Brings Light Into Our Dark Places.

Whether it’s fear, worry, or weariness, the light of Christ reaches places nothing else can.
Christmas isn’t just a celebration — it’s an invasion of hope.

2. Light Always Wins Over Darkness.

John 1:5 says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
Darkness can resist, but it cannot defeat Jesus.

3. We Are Called to Carry His Light.

As Christmas approaches, your smile, your words, your kindness may be the light someone desperately needs.
This season isn’t about shining on our own, but reflecting His glory.


Scripture Focus This Week

  • John 1:1–14
  • Isaiah 60:1 – “Arise, shine, for your light has come…”
  • Matthew 5:14–16 – “You are the light of the world…”

Spend a few minutes this week sitting in quiet — maybe by the glow of your Christmas tree — and thank Jesus for being the Light that never dims.


Church Announcements:

  • Series Continues – “Breaking the Silence”
  • December 14 will be our kids church Christmas program.

Reflection for the Week

The world may feel dark, busy, or heavy —
but the message of Christmas is simple and unchanging:

The Light has come.
The Light is here.
The Light is breaking through.

As we count down the final 19 days, keep your eyes open.
You’ll see the light of Christ in places you never expected.

I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

— Luke 2:10 


A Note from the Pastor

As the days grow shorter and Thanksgiving draws near, we find ourselves standing on the edge of one of the most joyful seasons of the year. The Christmas lights are beginning to appear, and soon we’ll hear carols that remind us of the night heaven touched earth.

But before the celebration begins, we find ourselves in a season of waiting — waiting for gatherings, waiting for Christmas morning, waiting for promises fulfilled. Waiting isn’t always easy. Yet in God’s kingdom, waiting is never wasted.

It’s in the waiting that our faith grows and our hearts learn to trust. That’s why this week’s focus in our Countdown to Christmas is Joy in the Waiting. Because even when the answer hasn’t come, and the prayer isn’t yet fulfilled, we can still rejoice — not because everything is perfect, but because God is present.

Be The One with joy and anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Thought: Joy in the Waiting

When the angel appeared to the shepherds, the message wasn’t “Be happy because life is easy.”
It was “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

True joy doesn’t come from circumstances — it comes from Christ. And sometimes, it’s in the waiting that we discover that most deeply.

Here’s how we can practice joy this week:

Choose Joy Daily.
Joy isn’t a mood — it’s a mindset. Wake up and thank God for one thing before anything else

Stay Prayerful in the Waiting.
Philippians 4:6–7 reminds us to bring everything to God in prayer. When we pray with thanksgiving, peace follows.

Spread Joy to Others.
Send a card, make a call, or serve someone in need. When we share joy, it multiplies. Even when life feels uncertain, we can still say, “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”  

Scripture Focus:

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” — Romans 15:13

Take time this week to reflect on the ways God has shown His faithfulness in your past. Joy grows when we remember that the same God who was faithful before will be faithful again.


Church Announcements

Thanksgiving Sunday – November 23th:
Join us as we gather for a special time of worship and gratitude. It’s the perfect way to begin the Advent season with thankful hearts.

Advent Series Begins November 30th:
Invite your friends and family to our Christmas series: Breaking The Silence.” This Christmas series examines Jesus’ arrival after the “four hundred years of silence.” You will be encouraged to worship God for his faithfulness and trust in Jesus’ assured return.

There will be no Sunday Night services during the month of December. Take this time and spend it with your family and friends celebrating our King!

Don’t forget to pick up your awesome HFA apparel if you ordered it. You must pay for it before receiving it.


Reflection for the Week

Joy is not the absence of hardship — it’s the presence of Jesus.
As we count down to Christmas, let’s not rush past the waiting. Let’s rejoice in it.

Because even in the in-between moments, God is working, hearts are softening, and His promise is still true:

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…” (Isaiah 9:6)

So, keep your eyes lifted and your heart joyful —
Christmas is coming, and so is the Light of the World.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.”

— Luke 3:4

A Note from the Pastor

Can you believe we’re already in the middle of November? Thanksgiving is almost here, and right behind it — Christmas! Decorations are going up, plans are being made, and before we know it, the calendar will turn to December.

But before the rush of the season sweeps us away, let’s pause for a moment. The second week of November is a perfect time to begin preparing our hearts for what Christmas is really about — not the presents, but His presence.

As John the Baptist once said, “Prepare the way for the Lord.” That’s our calling too — to make room for Jesus in our lives, homes, and hearts.

So as we continue our Countdown to Christmas, let’s not just count the days — let’s make the days count.

Be The One with love and anticipation,

Pastor Shannon  


Countdown Thought: Preparing the Way

When John the Baptist began preaching, he wasn’t just talking about clearing a road; he was talking about clearing the heart. Our world is noisy, busy, and full of distractions — and it’s easy to let that noise crowd out the quiet joy of Christ. Preparing for Christmas isn’t about perfect decorations or finding the best gifts. It’s about making space for Jesus in our everyday lives.

Here’s how we can begin:

Slow down before the season speeds up.
Take a few moments each day for prayer and Scripture. Even five minutes can re-center your heart.
Notice God’s blessings now.
Before we rush into Christmas lists, let’s make a gratitude list. What has God done in your life this year?
Reach out in love.
Maybe “preparing the way” means forgiving someone, encouraging a friend, or serving a neighbor in need.

When we do these things, we’re not just counting down to Christmas — we’re inviting Christ to come closer. 


Scripture Assignment

Take a few moments this week to read Luke 1–2. Ask God to show you something new about the miracle of Jesus’ coming.


Reflection for the Week

As we move through these final weeks of November, remember: Christmas isn’t something we rush to — it’s something we prepare for.

So let’s begin the countdown not with stress, but with stillness.

Let’s quiet our hearts, lift our eyes, and get ready for the greatest story ever told —the moment when Heaven came to Earth and God’s love took on flesh

Nov 1, 2025

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.”

Isaiah 9:2

A Note from the Pastor

It’s hard to believe it’s already November! The leaves are falling, the air is crisp, and soon the sounds of Christmas will fill the world around us. While stores are setting out decorations and holiday ads are everywhere, this is also a powerful time for us as believers to prepare our hearts for what Christmas truly means.

This year, each week’s newsletter until Christmas will be your invitation to join me in a “Countdown to Christmas.” Over the next several weeks, let’s intentionally focus on the hope, peace, joy, and love that came into the world when Jesus was born.

Before we rush into the hustle and bustle of December, November gives us a chance to slow down and look up. It’s the perfect time to realign our hearts with Christ — to remember that Christmas isn’t just a day on the calendar, but a story that changes everything.

Let’s begin the countdown together — one week, one prayer, and one act of love at a time.

Be The One with anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


The Countdown to Christmas Starts Now

1. Begin with Gratitude

Before the tinsel and trees, let’s start with thankfulness. November reminds us that a grateful heart prepares the way for a joyful Christmas.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1

Take time this week to thank God not just for what you have, but for who He is — the Giver of every good gift.


2. Watch for His Light

Time changes tonight, so as the days grow shorter and the nights darker, we are reminded of the promise that a light has come into the world. Jesus brings light into every shadow, hope into every hardship.

“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” – John 1:9

Ask God to shine His light in your life this month — in your home, your work, and your relationships.


3. Prepare Your Heart Early

Advent doesn’t start until December, but spiritual preparation begins now. Use this first week of November to refocus your priorities and make room for Jesus.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.” – Luke 3:4

Maybe that means letting go of busyness, or carving out time each day to read Scripture. Whatever it looks like for you, start preparing now.


Church Announcements

  • Tomorrow Night Sunday November 2:
    Fireside Fellowship 5pm, Firepit, Hotdogs, Smores, and games for all ages. If you want to bring chili for the hotdogs you are more than welcome to do so.
  • Tomorrow we will be announcing something special we will be doing instead our regular Thanksgiving Giveback. It be just as special, I promise.
  • Thanksgiving Series “I Give Thanks” starts tomorrow November 2.

This series looks at the thanksgiving prayers in Paul’s epistles and uses four different points of thanks that Paul offers to God as a way to inspire gratitude and praise in our hearts as we enter the Thanksgiving and holiday season.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18


Final Thought

November is more than just a month of falling leaves and pumpkin pie — it’s the doorway to the miracle of Christmas. As we step through it, let’s keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the Light of the World.

The countdown has begun… (54 days till Christmas) and it starts right now, with a grateful heart and an eager spirit.

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.”Ecclesiastes 3:1 

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, we’re reminded that life is made up of seasons—both in nature and in our walk with God. Just as we can’t rush spring or hold back autumn, we can’t always control the seasons of our lives. But what we can do is trust the One who holds every season in His hands. 

Maybe you’re in a season of growth, where God is planting new dreams in your heart. Or maybe you’re in a season of pruning, where He’s gently removing what no longer bears fruit. Some of us might be in a season of rest, where God says, “Be still and know that I am God.” 

No matter what season you find yourself in, remember this: every season has a purpose. Every change carries a promise. And through it all, God remains faithful. 

As a church, we too are moving through seasons. We’ve seen God bring new faces, stir up new ministries, and breathe fresh life into familiar places. With each change, He is preparing us for what’s next—calling us to deeper unity, greater faith, and renewed passion for His mission. 

So let’s embrace this season together. Let’s thank God for what He’s done and trust Him for what’s to come. Because even when the seasons change… our God never does. 

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon


A Note from Pastor’s Desk:
Church family, as we enter this new season, I’m filled with gratitude for each of you. I see God at work in so many ways—through your faithfulness, your service, and your love for one another. My prayer is that we won’t just watch this season change, but that we’ll grow through it together. Let’s continue to seek God’s will and stay sensitive to what He’s doing among us. Be The One, because the best is still ahead!

Over the past few months, I have been reading and reflecting on a book titled “The Great Dechurching.” The data and stories in that book have caused me to pause and ask hard questions:

Why are so many people stepping away from the church?

What role might we be playing — and what role can we play — in inviting people back?

This edition of our newsletter is dedicated to exploring insights from the book. My hope is that these reflections will stir our hearts, sharpen our mission, and deepen our love — not just for those who are already here, but for those who once were, or who might be in the future.

Let me just make things clear here, I know and recognize that this is a book written by two men, and they have done a lot of work researching and writing for this book. I appreciate and honor their work. Within this newsletter are a lot of my own takeaways, but I also lean on others and their research as well. Please take that into consideration while reading this newsletter.

Nevertheless, there is a pandemic within the church and we have to do something about it. Are you ready?  


What is “The Great Dechurching?”

  • The authors argue that America is undergoing the largest and fastest religious shift in its history — but in reverse of revival.
  • Roughly 40 million Americans have left church attendance over the past 25 years. 
  • For the first time in decades, the number of adults who do not belong to a church outpaces those who do. 

The book’s project is not just diagnostic — it’s also strategic. It seeks to understand who is leaving, why, and what might lead some to return.


Profiles of the Dechurched

One of the strengths of The Great Dechurching is how it uses research and composite profiles to make the trends more human. The authors identify several major “types” of dechurched evangelicals. 

ProfileDescriptionKey Features / Considerations
Cultural ChristiansThe largest subsetThey often hold weak doctrinal convictions, drifted out through life rhythms more than crisis, but many are open to returning. 
Dechurched Mainstream EvangelicalsLifelong believers who stopped attendingThey retain orthodox beliefs, but lost the habit (especially after life transitions like moving). 
ExvangelicalsIntentional, sometimes permanent, departureMany cite deep hurt, trauma, or disillusionment with church culture. 
Dechurched BIPOCThose whose dechurching is shaped by race, culture, and identityTheir experience may include feeling marginalized, culturally out of place, or unheard. 
Dechurched Mainline / Catholic & ProtestantNot exclusively evangelicalThe broader shift includes those from mainline and historic churches too. 

Takeaway: The reasons people leave are varied — not all hurt, not all rebellion. Many simply drifted. And for many, an invitation or relational bridge could make all the difference. 


Why Are People Leaving? (and What’s Pulling Them Away)

The authors categorize motivations into beliefs, behavior, and belonging — the three “Bs.” 

1. Beliefs

  • Some feel the church no longer answers their doubts or questions.
  • Others see inconsistency between what the church preaches and how it acts.
  • Political polarization and misuse of authority have also driven disillusionment. 

2. Behavior

  • Life transitions (moving, jobs, marriage, kids) disrupt habits.
  • Attendance became inconvenient.
  • The “inertia effect” — once someone steps away, it becomes easier to stay away.

3. Belonging

  • Many left because they never felt loved, accepted, or known. 
  • Some say the church felt foreign or culturally distant.
  • The deepest barrier may not be theological, but relational.

One especially sobering insight: “casual dechurching” is more common than one might expect. Many people slide away, not because of a crisis of faith, but simply because life changes gradually pull them apart from the church.


Reasons for Hope

Despite the sobering trends, The Great Dechurching is not a book of despair. It offers hope and direction. Here are some of the key encouragements:

  • About 51% of dechurched evangelicals say they might return someday. 
  • Many maintain orthodox beliefs; the shift is often more about habit and relational connection than doctrinal abandonment. 
  • Belonging, more than persuasion, is often the “hinge” on which a return decision rests.
  • The authors call for relational wisdom — posture marked by quiet, calm curiosity — as a better way to engage than debate or coercion.
  • The church is invited into exile — to lose its grip on power, to serve from the margins, and to rediscover dependence on God’s grace.

Questions for Reflection for our Families

  1. Can you think of someone in your life who has drifted away from church? What might be their story?
  2. Which of the three “Bs” (believe, behave, belong) do you sense we struggle with most as a congregation?
  3. What might it look like for us to cultivate relational wisdom in how we talk and live together?
  4. How might we re-imagine our practices so that belonging is built in, especially for newcomers or those unsure?
  5. As a church, are there places where we’ve prioritized power or prestige over humility and service?

What You Can Do

How you can help:

  • Identify one person in your social circle who has drifted away, and extend a personal, low-pressure invitation — “I miss you; would you come with me this Sunday?”
  • Be intentional about friendships across generations. Invest time in people who are less familiar or less like you.
  • Pray for humility in our church — that we would listen more than lecture, serve more than command.
  • If you have gifts in hospitality, visitation, or relational ministry, Please let the Pastoral team know.

Closing Word

Let us not approach this moment with fear or despair, but with humility, hope, and resolve. If The Great Dechurching can teach anything, it is that much of what divides is healed through presencelistening, and steadfast love. The church is not a show, but a family. And every member matters. 

After seeing these reports, I’m thrilled to share that our story looks very different. We are in the midst of revival! It may not match what others define as revival, but lives are being changed, people are coming home to the church, and hearts are being awakened to a real relationship with Jesus Christ.

May God in his grace continue to draw many back, and may he continue to draw us ever more deeply into his heart of compassion and wisdom.

Don’t forget to Be The One!

Pastor Shannon

“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.”

Ezekiel 22:30

God is still looking for people who will stand in the gap—people who will intercede, serve, love, and live faithfully so that others can come to know Christ. Standing in the gap means being willing to step in where there’s a need, to pray where there’s a burden, and to fight spiritually for those who cannot fight for themselves.

This month, let’s ask ourselves: Where is God calling me to stand in the gap? It could be for your family, for a neighbor, for our church, for our nation, or for someone who doesn’t yet know Christ. 


Prayer Focus

This month, let’s focus our prayers on:

  • Families in our church who are struggling.
  • Our community leaders, that they may have wisdom.
  • The next generation, that they may encounter God’s truth.
  • Revival in our homes, our city, and our nation. 

Scripture

“And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land…” (Ezekiel 22:30)

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) 


Church News

Sermon Series: Living in the Last Days, ends this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service last Sunday: We celebrated 8 baptisms and i am continuing to receive  testimonies messages of great reports throughout the week.

Fall Fest: This might look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Thought

Standing in the gap is not always glamorous—it often happens in the secret place of prayer or in quiet acts of love. But heaven notices. Let’s be a church that stands strong, together, in the gap for others. 

Remember to Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.”

Matthew 5:6

All across history, every great move of God began with a hunger that stirred in the hearts of His people. When men and women longed for more than routine, more than religion, and cried out for the living presence of God—He responded.

We are living in a time when distractions are everywhere, but there is a mighty wave of spiritual hunger rising. People are realizing that nothing in this world can satisfy the soul like Jesus. This hunger is not a weakness—it is an invitation to be filled.

Are you hungry for a deeper move of God in your life, your family, and our church? Let’s position ourselves in prayer, worship, and obedience so that when the wave of His Spirit comes, we are ready to be swept up in His power. 


Devotional Thought

Hunger is a gift. It proves you were made for more than what this world offers. God promises to fill those who seek Him with all their heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

Revival is never accidental—it comes when God’s people are desperate for His presence. Just like waves in the ocean, God’s Spirit moves in power and in timing. Hunger creates the conditions for the wave to rise.  

How Do We Stir Our Hunger?

Pray daily – Not just for needs, but for His presence.

Fast – Lay something down to show God your desire for Him above all else.

Worship – Even when you don’t “feel it,” worship draws His Spirit close.

Expect – Believe that God is ready to move here and now. 


Church News

Our Wednesday Nights are exploding!

The last several midweek services have been nothing short of Amazing! If you haven’t attended you are missing out. We have been averaging close to 150 each week; 80-100 kids and youth. I want to encourage you to bring your kids, your neighbors kids and yourself to come experience an HFA midweek. You will not be disappointed.

Sermon Series. The current series: Living in the Last Days continues this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service this coming Sunday AM. If you want to be baptized, please let Pastor Shannon know. Bring a change of clothes (nothing white) and a towel.

Fall Fest. This night may look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Encouragement

The world is hungry for entertainment, success, and pleasure — but the church must be hungry for the living God. When a body of believers hungers together, God pours out His Spirit in ways that change communities, families, and nations.

Let’s Be that church. Let’s Be that people. Let’s ride the mighty wave of hunger into a fresh move of God! 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

HFA Weekly Newsletter
1.25.2026
There is something sacred about the first snowfall.The world slows down. Noise is softened. Rough edges are covered. What was once ordinary suddenly becomes beautiful. Streets, fields, rooftops—everything looks new again beneath a blanket of white.

Snow has a way of reminding us that God still speaks in quiet ways.

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” — Isaiah 1:18

A Picture of Grace

Snow does not argue with the ground beneath it. It simply falls—freely, gently, generously. In the same way, God’s grace is not earned; it is given. It covers what is broken, worn, and stained, and declares it clean. Winter shows us that God is never absent, even when things seem still or cold. Beneath the snow, life is being protected, prepared, and preserved for what is to come.

God at Work in the Stillness

Snow invites us to pause. To breathe. To listen. To notice.

In Scripture, God often does His deepest work in quiet seasons—when hearts are still enough to hear Him. Snowy days remind us that rest is holy and waiting is not wasted.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10

A Call to Reflect

As you look out at the white landscape today, let it stir your heart: Where might God be offering you a fresh start? What burdens is He inviting you to lay down? How can you reflect His purity, peace, and grace to others?

A Prayer for the Season

Lord, thank You for the beauty You paint across your creation. As the world grows quiet after the snow has feallen, help us to hear Your voice more clearly. Cover our hearts with Your grace. Renew our spirits. Teach us to trust You in every season. Amen.


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

As we move further into this new year, I am struck by the beauty of the season God has placed us in. It is a season of expectation. To live with expectation is not merely to wait for time to pass; it is to wait with a “stretched-out neck,” eagerly looking for where God is already moving.

Whether you are in a mountaintop moment or a valley of testing, remember that our God is a promise-keeper. I want to personally challenge each of you to remain steadfast in your daily Bible reading. The Word of God is not just a book of history; it is “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12).

When we neglect the Scriptures, we try to fight spiritual battles on an empty stomach. I encourage you to set aside even fifteen minutes this week to sit with the Word. Let it anchor your soul and sharpen your vision for what He is doing in your life.

The world around us can feel turbulent, but our foundation is unshakable. To stay strong in faith means to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of it all. Strength doesn’t always look like a loud victory; sometimes, it is the quiet resolve to trust God one more day. If you feel weary, lean into the grace that is sufficient for you. You are not walking this path alone.

Finally, I am so excited about our upcoming Marriage Weekend on February 7th (9-noon) and 8th. Marriage is one of the most profound mirrors of Christ’s love for the Church, yet it requires intentional cultivation.

Whether you have been married for five months or fifty years, we invite you to join us for this special time of refreshment, laughter, and biblical teaching. Let’s make the choice to invest in our homes so that they may be beacons of light in our community.

Expect great things from God this week.  We are praying for you, and we can’t wait to see how He moves in our midst.

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

The “Story of Redemption” Annual Plan

Quarter 1: Foundations & The Covenant

January: The Beginnings. Genesis and Job. (See the creation of the world and the oldest questions of human suffering).

February: Deliverance. Exodus and Leviticus. (The escape from Egypt and the blueprint for holiness).

March: The Wilderness. Numbers and Deuteronomy. (Lessons on faithfulness and preparing to enter the promised land).


Quarter 2: Kingdoms & Wisdom

April: Possession & Judges. Joshua, Judges, Ruth. (The struggle for the land and the need for a King).

May: The United Kingdom. 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 Chronicles. (The lives of Saul, David, and Solomon).

June: Heart & Soul. Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon. (Taking a break from history to focus on prayer and wisdom).


Quarter 3: Exile & The Prophets

July: The Divided Kingdom. 1 & 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles. (The rise and fall of Israel and Judah).

August: Major Prophets. Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations. (Warnings of judgment and promises of a future Savior).

September: Minor Prophets & Return. Ezekiel, Daniel, and the “Book of the Twelve” (Hosea–Malachi).


Quarter 4: The Messiah & The Church

October: The Gospels. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. (The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus).

November: The Early Church. Acts, Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians. (The spread of the Gospel and the core of Christian doctrine).

December: The Epistles & Revelation. Ephesians through Jude, and Revelation. (Instructions for living and the ultimate hope of Christ’s return).


3 Tips for “Meaningful” Reading

1. The “One Verse” Rule: Don’t just read to check a box. Every day, pick one verse that stood out and write it down or meditate on it during your commute/lunch.

2. Use a “Bridge” Prayer: Before you open the book, pray: “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law” (Psalm 119:18).

3. Don’t Panic if You Fall Behind: If you miss three days, don’t try to read 12 chapters in one sitting. Just start where you are today. The goal is transformation, not just completion.

Week 6 – “The Light Breaks Through”

Only 19 Days Until Christmas!

“The true Light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” — John 1:9


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

We’ve officially stepped into December — the month where excitement rises, calendars fill up, and hearts begin to lean in toward the miracle of Christmas. And now, with only 19 days left, we continue our countdown with anticipation and wonder.

For centuries, the world waited in darkness for the promised Messiah. But the moment Jesus entered the world, light broke through.
Not the soft glow of a candle, but a light strong enough to shatter sin, silence fear, and bring hope to the broken.

As we move deeper into this Advent season, let’s look for the Light of Christ breaking through in our own lives — in our homes, in our church, in our hearts.

Be The One with hope and joy,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Focus: “The Light Breaks Through”

Advent reminds us that God doesn’t wait for perfect conditions to work — He breaks into the darkness right where we are.

Three Truths This Week:

1. Jesus Brings Light Into Our Dark Places.

Whether it’s fear, worry, or weariness, the light of Christ reaches places nothing else can.
Christmas isn’t just a celebration — it’s an invasion of hope.

2. Light Always Wins Over Darkness.

John 1:5 says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
Darkness can resist, but it cannot defeat Jesus.

3. We Are Called to Carry His Light.

As Christmas approaches, your smile, your words, your kindness may be the light someone desperately needs.
This season isn’t about shining on our own, but reflecting His glory.


Scripture Focus This Week

  • John 1:1–14
  • Isaiah 60:1 – “Arise, shine, for your light has come…”
  • Matthew 5:14–16 – “You are the light of the world…”

Spend a few minutes this week sitting in quiet — maybe by the glow of your Christmas tree — and thank Jesus for being the Light that never dims.


Church Announcements:

  • Series Continues – “Breaking the Silence”
  • December 14 will be our kids church Christmas program.

Reflection for the Week

The world may feel dark, busy, or heavy —
but the message of Christmas is simple and unchanging:

The Light has come.
The Light is here.
The Light is breaking through.

As we count down the final 19 days, keep your eyes open.
You’ll see the light of Christ in places you never expected.

I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

— Luke 2:10 


A Note from the Pastor

As the days grow shorter and Thanksgiving draws near, we find ourselves standing on the edge of one of the most joyful seasons of the year. The Christmas lights are beginning to appear, and soon we’ll hear carols that remind us of the night heaven touched earth.

But before the celebration begins, we find ourselves in a season of waiting — waiting for gatherings, waiting for Christmas morning, waiting for promises fulfilled. Waiting isn’t always easy. Yet in God’s kingdom, waiting is never wasted.

It’s in the waiting that our faith grows and our hearts learn to trust. That’s why this week’s focus in our Countdown to Christmas is Joy in the Waiting. Because even when the answer hasn’t come, and the prayer isn’t yet fulfilled, we can still rejoice — not because everything is perfect, but because God is present.

Be The One with joy and anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Thought: Joy in the Waiting

When the angel appeared to the shepherds, the message wasn’t “Be happy because life is easy.”
It was “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

True joy doesn’t come from circumstances — it comes from Christ. And sometimes, it’s in the waiting that we discover that most deeply.

Here’s how we can practice joy this week:

Choose Joy Daily.
Joy isn’t a mood — it’s a mindset. Wake up and thank God for one thing before anything else

Stay Prayerful in the Waiting.
Philippians 4:6–7 reminds us to bring everything to God in prayer. When we pray with thanksgiving, peace follows.

Spread Joy to Others.
Send a card, make a call, or serve someone in need. When we share joy, it multiplies. Even when life feels uncertain, we can still say, “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”  

Scripture Focus:

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” — Romans 15:13

Take time this week to reflect on the ways God has shown His faithfulness in your past. Joy grows when we remember that the same God who was faithful before will be faithful again.


Church Announcements

Thanksgiving Sunday – November 23th:
Join us as we gather for a special time of worship and gratitude. It’s the perfect way to begin the Advent season with thankful hearts.

Advent Series Begins November 30th:
Invite your friends and family to our Christmas series: Breaking The Silence.” This Christmas series examines Jesus’ arrival after the “four hundred years of silence.” You will be encouraged to worship God for his faithfulness and trust in Jesus’ assured return.

There will be no Sunday Night services during the month of December. Take this time and spend it with your family and friends celebrating our King!

Don’t forget to pick up your awesome HFA apparel if you ordered it. You must pay for it before receiving it.


Reflection for the Week

Joy is not the absence of hardship — it’s the presence of Jesus.
As we count down to Christmas, let’s not rush past the waiting. Let’s rejoice in it.

Because even in the in-between moments, God is working, hearts are softening, and His promise is still true:

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…” (Isaiah 9:6)

So, keep your eyes lifted and your heart joyful —
Christmas is coming, and so is the Light of the World.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.”

— Luke 3:4

A Note from the Pastor

Can you believe we’re already in the middle of November? Thanksgiving is almost here, and right behind it — Christmas! Decorations are going up, plans are being made, and before we know it, the calendar will turn to December.

But before the rush of the season sweeps us away, let’s pause for a moment. The second week of November is a perfect time to begin preparing our hearts for what Christmas is really about — not the presents, but His presence.

As John the Baptist once said, “Prepare the way for the Lord.” That’s our calling too — to make room for Jesus in our lives, homes, and hearts.

So as we continue our Countdown to Christmas, let’s not just count the days — let’s make the days count.

Be The One with love and anticipation,

Pastor Shannon  


Countdown Thought: Preparing the Way

When John the Baptist began preaching, he wasn’t just talking about clearing a road; he was talking about clearing the heart. Our world is noisy, busy, and full of distractions — and it’s easy to let that noise crowd out the quiet joy of Christ. Preparing for Christmas isn’t about perfect decorations or finding the best gifts. It’s about making space for Jesus in our everyday lives.

Here’s how we can begin:

Slow down before the season speeds up.
Take a few moments each day for prayer and Scripture. Even five minutes can re-center your heart.
Notice God’s blessings now.
Before we rush into Christmas lists, let’s make a gratitude list. What has God done in your life this year?
Reach out in love.
Maybe “preparing the way” means forgiving someone, encouraging a friend, or serving a neighbor in need.

When we do these things, we’re not just counting down to Christmas — we’re inviting Christ to come closer. 


Scripture Assignment

Take a few moments this week to read Luke 1–2. Ask God to show you something new about the miracle of Jesus’ coming.


Reflection for the Week

As we move through these final weeks of November, remember: Christmas isn’t something we rush to — it’s something we prepare for.

So let’s begin the countdown not with stress, but with stillness.

Let’s quiet our hearts, lift our eyes, and get ready for the greatest story ever told —the moment when Heaven came to Earth and God’s love took on flesh

Nov 1, 2025

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.”

Isaiah 9:2

A Note from the Pastor

It’s hard to believe it’s already November! The leaves are falling, the air is crisp, and soon the sounds of Christmas will fill the world around us. While stores are setting out decorations and holiday ads are everywhere, this is also a powerful time for us as believers to prepare our hearts for what Christmas truly means.

This year, each week’s newsletter until Christmas will be your invitation to join me in a “Countdown to Christmas.” Over the next several weeks, let’s intentionally focus on the hope, peace, joy, and love that came into the world when Jesus was born.

Before we rush into the hustle and bustle of December, November gives us a chance to slow down and look up. It’s the perfect time to realign our hearts with Christ — to remember that Christmas isn’t just a day on the calendar, but a story that changes everything.

Let’s begin the countdown together — one week, one prayer, and one act of love at a time.

Be The One with anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


The Countdown to Christmas Starts Now

1. Begin with Gratitude

Before the tinsel and trees, let’s start with thankfulness. November reminds us that a grateful heart prepares the way for a joyful Christmas.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1

Take time this week to thank God not just for what you have, but for who He is — the Giver of every good gift.


2. Watch for His Light

Time changes tonight, so as the days grow shorter and the nights darker, we are reminded of the promise that a light has come into the world. Jesus brings light into every shadow, hope into every hardship.

“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” – John 1:9

Ask God to shine His light in your life this month — in your home, your work, and your relationships.


3. Prepare Your Heart Early

Advent doesn’t start until December, but spiritual preparation begins now. Use this first week of November to refocus your priorities and make room for Jesus.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.” – Luke 3:4

Maybe that means letting go of busyness, or carving out time each day to read Scripture. Whatever it looks like for you, start preparing now.


Church Announcements

  • Tomorrow Night Sunday November 2:
    Fireside Fellowship 5pm, Firepit, Hotdogs, Smores, and games for all ages. If you want to bring chili for the hotdogs you are more than welcome to do so.
  • Tomorrow we will be announcing something special we will be doing instead our regular Thanksgiving Giveback. It be just as special, I promise.
  • Thanksgiving Series “I Give Thanks” starts tomorrow November 2.

This series looks at the thanksgiving prayers in Paul’s epistles and uses four different points of thanks that Paul offers to God as a way to inspire gratitude and praise in our hearts as we enter the Thanksgiving and holiday season.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18


Final Thought

November is more than just a month of falling leaves and pumpkin pie — it’s the doorway to the miracle of Christmas. As we step through it, let’s keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the Light of the World.

The countdown has begun… (54 days till Christmas) and it starts right now, with a grateful heart and an eager spirit.

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.”Ecclesiastes 3:1 

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, we’re reminded that life is made up of seasons—both in nature and in our walk with God. Just as we can’t rush spring or hold back autumn, we can’t always control the seasons of our lives. But what we can do is trust the One who holds every season in His hands. 

Maybe you’re in a season of growth, where God is planting new dreams in your heart. Or maybe you’re in a season of pruning, where He’s gently removing what no longer bears fruit. Some of us might be in a season of rest, where God says, “Be still and know that I am God.” 

No matter what season you find yourself in, remember this: every season has a purpose. Every change carries a promise. And through it all, God remains faithful. 

As a church, we too are moving through seasons. We’ve seen God bring new faces, stir up new ministries, and breathe fresh life into familiar places. With each change, He is preparing us for what’s next—calling us to deeper unity, greater faith, and renewed passion for His mission. 

So let’s embrace this season together. Let’s thank God for what He’s done and trust Him for what’s to come. Because even when the seasons change… our God never does. 

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon


A Note from Pastor’s Desk:
Church family, as we enter this new season, I’m filled with gratitude for each of you. I see God at work in so many ways—through your faithfulness, your service, and your love for one another. My prayer is that we won’t just watch this season change, but that we’ll grow through it together. Let’s continue to seek God’s will and stay sensitive to what He’s doing among us. Be The One, because the best is still ahead!

Over the past few months, I have been reading and reflecting on a book titled “The Great Dechurching.” The data and stories in that book have caused me to pause and ask hard questions:

Why are so many people stepping away from the church?

What role might we be playing — and what role can we play — in inviting people back?

This edition of our newsletter is dedicated to exploring insights from the book. My hope is that these reflections will stir our hearts, sharpen our mission, and deepen our love — not just for those who are already here, but for those who once were, or who might be in the future.

Let me just make things clear here, I know and recognize that this is a book written by two men, and they have done a lot of work researching and writing for this book. I appreciate and honor their work. Within this newsletter are a lot of my own takeaways, but I also lean on others and their research as well. Please take that into consideration while reading this newsletter.

Nevertheless, there is a pandemic within the church and we have to do something about it. Are you ready?  


What is “The Great Dechurching?”

  • The authors argue that America is undergoing the largest and fastest religious shift in its history — but in reverse of revival.
  • Roughly 40 million Americans have left church attendance over the past 25 years. 
  • For the first time in decades, the number of adults who do not belong to a church outpaces those who do. 

The book’s project is not just diagnostic — it’s also strategic. It seeks to understand who is leaving, why, and what might lead some to return.


Profiles of the Dechurched

One of the strengths of The Great Dechurching is how it uses research and composite profiles to make the trends more human. The authors identify several major “types” of dechurched evangelicals. 

ProfileDescriptionKey Features / Considerations
Cultural ChristiansThe largest subsetThey often hold weak doctrinal convictions, drifted out through life rhythms more than crisis, but many are open to returning. 
Dechurched Mainstream EvangelicalsLifelong believers who stopped attendingThey retain orthodox beliefs, but lost the habit (especially after life transitions like moving). 
ExvangelicalsIntentional, sometimes permanent, departureMany cite deep hurt, trauma, or disillusionment with church culture. 
Dechurched BIPOCThose whose dechurching is shaped by race, culture, and identityTheir experience may include feeling marginalized, culturally out of place, or unheard. 
Dechurched Mainline / Catholic & ProtestantNot exclusively evangelicalThe broader shift includes those from mainline and historic churches too. 

Takeaway: The reasons people leave are varied — not all hurt, not all rebellion. Many simply drifted. And for many, an invitation or relational bridge could make all the difference. 


Why Are People Leaving? (and What’s Pulling Them Away)

The authors categorize motivations into beliefs, behavior, and belonging — the three “Bs.” 

1. Beliefs

  • Some feel the church no longer answers their doubts or questions.
  • Others see inconsistency between what the church preaches and how it acts.
  • Political polarization and misuse of authority have also driven disillusionment. 

2. Behavior

  • Life transitions (moving, jobs, marriage, kids) disrupt habits.
  • Attendance became inconvenient.
  • The “inertia effect” — once someone steps away, it becomes easier to stay away.

3. Belonging

  • Many left because they never felt loved, accepted, or known. 
  • Some say the church felt foreign or culturally distant.
  • The deepest barrier may not be theological, but relational.

One especially sobering insight: “casual dechurching” is more common than one might expect. Many people slide away, not because of a crisis of faith, but simply because life changes gradually pull them apart from the church.


Reasons for Hope

Despite the sobering trends, The Great Dechurching is not a book of despair. It offers hope and direction. Here are some of the key encouragements:

  • About 51% of dechurched evangelicals say they might return someday. 
  • Many maintain orthodox beliefs; the shift is often more about habit and relational connection than doctrinal abandonment. 
  • Belonging, more than persuasion, is often the “hinge” on which a return decision rests.
  • The authors call for relational wisdom — posture marked by quiet, calm curiosity — as a better way to engage than debate or coercion.
  • The church is invited into exile — to lose its grip on power, to serve from the margins, and to rediscover dependence on God’s grace.

Questions for Reflection for our Families

  1. Can you think of someone in your life who has drifted away from church? What might be their story?
  2. Which of the three “Bs” (believe, behave, belong) do you sense we struggle with most as a congregation?
  3. What might it look like for us to cultivate relational wisdom in how we talk and live together?
  4. How might we re-imagine our practices so that belonging is built in, especially for newcomers or those unsure?
  5. As a church, are there places where we’ve prioritized power or prestige over humility and service?

What You Can Do

How you can help:

  • Identify one person in your social circle who has drifted away, and extend a personal, low-pressure invitation — “I miss you; would you come with me this Sunday?”
  • Be intentional about friendships across generations. Invest time in people who are less familiar or less like you.
  • Pray for humility in our church — that we would listen more than lecture, serve more than command.
  • If you have gifts in hospitality, visitation, or relational ministry, Please let the Pastoral team know.

Closing Word

Let us not approach this moment with fear or despair, but with humility, hope, and resolve. If The Great Dechurching can teach anything, it is that much of what divides is healed through presencelistening, and steadfast love. The church is not a show, but a family. And every member matters. 

After seeing these reports, I’m thrilled to share that our story looks very different. We are in the midst of revival! It may not match what others define as revival, but lives are being changed, people are coming home to the church, and hearts are being awakened to a real relationship with Jesus Christ.

May God in his grace continue to draw many back, and may he continue to draw us ever more deeply into his heart of compassion and wisdom.

Don’t forget to Be The One!

Pastor Shannon

“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.”

Ezekiel 22:30

God is still looking for people who will stand in the gap—people who will intercede, serve, love, and live faithfully so that others can come to know Christ. Standing in the gap means being willing to step in where there’s a need, to pray where there’s a burden, and to fight spiritually for those who cannot fight for themselves.

This month, let’s ask ourselves: Where is God calling me to stand in the gap? It could be for your family, for a neighbor, for our church, for our nation, or for someone who doesn’t yet know Christ. 


Prayer Focus

This month, let’s focus our prayers on:

  • Families in our church who are struggling.
  • Our community leaders, that they may have wisdom.
  • The next generation, that they may encounter God’s truth.
  • Revival in our homes, our city, and our nation. 

Scripture

“And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land…” (Ezekiel 22:30)

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) 


Church News

Sermon Series: Living in the Last Days, ends this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service last Sunday: We celebrated 8 baptisms and i am continuing to receive  testimonies messages of great reports throughout the week.

Fall Fest: This might look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Thought

Standing in the gap is not always glamorous—it often happens in the secret place of prayer or in quiet acts of love. But heaven notices. Let’s be a church that stands strong, together, in the gap for others. 

Remember to Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.”

Matthew 5:6

All across history, every great move of God began with a hunger that stirred in the hearts of His people. When men and women longed for more than routine, more than religion, and cried out for the living presence of God—He responded.

We are living in a time when distractions are everywhere, but there is a mighty wave of spiritual hunger rising. People are realizing that nothing in this world can satisfy the soul like Jesus. This hunger is not a weakness—it is an invitation to be filled.

Are you hungry for a deeper move of God in your life, your family, and our church? Let’s position ourselves in prayer, worship, and obedience so that when the wave of His Spirit comes, we are ready to be swept up in His power. 


Devotional Thought

Hunger is a gift. It proves you were made for more than what this world offers. God promises to fill those who seek Him with all their heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

Revival is never accidental—it comes when God’s people are desperate for His presence. Just like waves in the ocean, God’s Spirit moves in power and in timing. Hunger creates the conditions for the wave to rise.  

How Do We Stir Our Hunger?

Pray daily – Not just for needs, but for His presence.

Fast – Lay something down to show God your desire for Him above all else.

Worship – Even when you don’t “feel it,” worship draws His Spirit close.

Expect – Believe that God is ready to move here and now. 


Church News

Our Wednesday Nights are exploding!

The last several midweek services have been nothing short of Amazing! If you haven’t attended you are missing out. We have been averaging close to 150 each week; 80-100 kids and youth. I want to encourage you to bring your kids, your neighbors kids and yourself to come experience an HFA midweek. You will not be disappointed.

Sermon Series. The current series: Living in the Last Days continues this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service this coming Sunday AM. If you want to be baptized, please let Pastor Shannon know. Bring a change of clothes (nothing white) and a towel.

Fall Fest. This night may look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Encouragement

The world is hungry for entertainment, success, and pleasure — but the church must be hungry for the living God. When a body of believers hungers together, God pours out His Spirit in ways that change communities, families, and nations.

Let’s Be that church. Let’s Be that people. Let’s ride the mighty wave of hunger into a fresh move of God! 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

HFA Weekly Newsletter
1.25.2026
There is something sacred about the first snowfall.The world slows down. Noise is softened. Rough edges are covered. What was once ordinary suddenly becomes beautiful. Streets, fields, rooftops—everything looks new again beneath a blanket of white.

Snow has a way of reminding us that God still speaks in quiet ways.

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” — Isaiah 1:18

A Picture of Grace

Snow does not argue with the ground beneath it. It simply falls—freely, gently, generously. In the same way, God’s grace is not earned; it is given. It covers what is broken, worn, and stained, and declares it clean. Winter shows us that God is never absent, even when things seem still or cold. Beneath the snow, life is being protected, prepared, and preserved for what is to come.

God at Work in the Stillness

Snow invites us to pause. To breathe. To listen. To notice.

In Scripture, God often does His deepest work in quiet seasons—when hearts are still enough to hear Him. Snowy days remind us that rest is holy and waiting is not wasted.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10

A Call to Reflect

As you look out at the white landscape today, let it stir your heart: Where might God be offering you a fresh start? What burdens is He inviting you to lay down? How can you reflect His purity, peace, and grace to others?

A Prayer for the Season

Lord, thank You for the beauty You paint across your creation. As the world grows quiet after the snow has feallen, help us to hear Your voice more clearly. Cover our hearts with Your grace. Renew our spirits. Teach us to trust You in every season. Amen.


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

As we move further into this new year, I am struck by the beauty of the season God has placed us in. It is a season of expectation. To live with expectation is not merely to wait for time to pass; it is to wait with a “stretched-out neck,” eagerly looking for where God is already moving.

Whether you are in a mountaintop moment or a valley of testing, remember that our God is a promise-keeper. I want to personally challenge each of you to remain steadfast in your daily Bible reading. The Word of God is not just a book of history; it is “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12).

When we neglect the Scriptures, we try to fight spiritual battles on an empty stomach. I encourage you to set aside even fifteen minutes this week to sit with the Word. Let it anchor your soul and sharpen your vision for what He is doing in your life.

The world around us can feel turbulent, but our foundation is unshakable. To stay strong in faith means to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of it all. Strength doesn’t always look like a loud victory; sometimes, it is the quiet resolve to trust God one more day. If you feel weary, lean into the grace that is sufficient for you. You are not walking this path alone.

Finally, I am so excited about our upcoming Marriage Weekend on February 7th (9-noon) and 8th. Marriage is one of the most profound mirrors of Christ’s love for the Church, yet it requires intentional cultivation.

Whether you have been married for five months or fifty years, we invite you to join us for this special time of refreshment, laughter, and biblical teaching. Let’s make the choice to invest in our homes so that they may be beacons of light in our community.

Expect great things from God this week.  We are praying for you, and we can’t wait to see how He moves in our midst.

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

The “Story of Redemption” Annual Plan

Quarter 1: Foundations & The Covenant

January: The Beginnings. Genesis and Job. (See the creation of the world and the oldest questions of human suffering).

February: Deliverance. Exodus and Leviticus. (The escape from Egypt and the blueprint for holiness).

March: The Wilderness. Numbers and Deuteronomy. (Lessons on faithfulness and preparing to enter the promised land).


Quarter 2: Kingdoms & Wisdom

April: Possession & Judges. Joshua, Judges, Ruth. (The struggle for the land and the need for a King).

May: The United Kingdom. 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 Chronicles. (The lives of Saul, David, and Solomon).

June: Heart & Soul. Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon. (Taking a break from history to focus on prayer and wisdom).


Quarter 3: Exile & The Prophets

July: The Divided Kingdom. 1 & 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles. (The rise and fall of Israel and Judah).

August: Major Prophets. Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations. (Warnings of judgment and promises of a future Savior).

September: Minor Prophets & Return. Ezekiel, Daniel, and the “Book of the Twelve” (Hosea–Malachi).


Quarter 4: The Messiah & The Church

October: The Gospels. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. (The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus).

November: The Early Church. Acts, Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians. (The spread of the Gospel and the core of Christian doctrine).

December: The Epistles & Revelation. Ephesians through Jude, and Revelation. (Instructions for living and the ultimate hope of Christ’s return).


3 Tips for “Meaningful” Reading

1. The “One Verse” Rule: Don’t just read to check a box. Every day, pick one verse that stood out and write it down or meditate on it during your commute/lunch.

2. Use a “Bridge” Prayer: Before you open the book, pray: “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law” (Psalm 119:18).

3. Don’t Panic if You Fall Behind: If you miss three days, don’t try to read 12 chapters in one sitting. Just start where you are today. The goal is transformation, not just completion.

Week 6 – “The Light Breaks Through”

Only 19 Days Until Christmas!

“The true Light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” — John 1:9


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

We’ve officially stepped into December — the month where excitement rises, calendars fill up, and hearts begin to lean in toward the miracle of Christmas. And now, with only 19 days left, we continue our countdown with anticipation and wonder.

For centuries, the world waited in darkness for the promised Messiah. But the moment Jesus entered the world, light broke through.
Not the soft glow of a candle, but a light strong enough to shatter sin, silence fear, and bring hope to the broken.

As we move deeper into this Advent season, let’s look for the Light of Christ breaking through in our own lives — in our homes, in our church, in our hearts.

Be The One with hope and joy,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Focus: “The Light Breaks Through”

Advent reminds us that God doesn’t wait for perfect conditions to work — He breaks into the darkness right where we are.

Three Truths This Week:

1. Jesus Brings Light Into Our Dark Places.

Whether it’s fear, worry, or weariness, the light of Christ reaches places nothing else can.
Christmas isn’t just a celebration — it’s an invasion of hope.

2. Light Always Wins Over Darkness.

John 1:5 says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
Darkness can resist, but it cannot defeat Jesus.

3. We Are Called to Carry His Light.

As Christmas approaches, your smile, your words, your kindness may be the light someone desperately needs.
This season isn’t about shining on our own, but reflecting His glory.


Scripture Focus This Week

  • John 1:1–14
  • Isaiah 60:1 – “Arise, shine, for your light has come…”
  • Matthew 5:14–16 – “You are the light of the world…”

Spend a few minutes this week sitting in quiet — maybe by the glow of your Christmas tree — and thank Jesus for being the Light that never dims.


Church Announcements:

  • Series Continues – “Breaking the Silence”
  • December 14 will be our kids church Christmas program.

Reflection for the Week

The world may feel dark, busy, or heavy —
but the message of Christmas is simple and unchanging:

The Light has come.
The Light is here.
The Light is breaking through.

As we count down the final 19 days, keep your eyes open.
You’ll see the light of Christ in places you never expected.

I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

— Luke 2:10 


A Note from the Pastor

As the days grow shorter and Thanksgiving draws near, we find ourselves standing on the edge of one of the most joyful seasons of the year. The Christmas lights are beginning to appear, and soon we’ll hear carols that remind us of the night heaven touched earth.

But before the celebration begins, we find ourselves in a season of waiting — waiting for gatherings, waiting for Christmas morning, waiting for promises fulfilled. Waiting isn’t always easy. Yet in God’s kingdom, waiting is never wasted.

It’s in the waiting that our faith grows and our hearts learn to trust. That’s why this week’s focus in our Countdown to Christmas is Joy in the Waiting. Because even when the answer hasn’t come, and the prayer isn’t yet fulfilled, we can still rejoice — not because everything is perfect, but because God is present.

Be The One with joy and anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Thought: Joy in the Waiting

When the angel appeared to the shepherds, the message wasn’t “Be happy because life is easy.”
It was “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

True joy doesn’t come from circumstances — it comes from Christ. And sometimes, it’s in the waiting that we discover that most deeply.

Here’s how we can practice joy this week:

Choose Joy Daily.
Joy isn’t a mood — it’s a mindset. Wake up and thank God for one thing before anything else

Stay Prayerful in the Waiting.
Philippians 4:6–7 reminds us to bring everything to God in prayer. When we pray with thanksgiving, peace follows.

Spread Joy to Others.
Send a card, make a call, or serve someone in need. When we share joy, it multiplies. Even when life feels uncertain, we can still say, “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”  

Scripture Focus:

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” — Romans 15:13

Take time this week to reflect on the ways God has shown His faithfulness in your past. Joy grows when we remember that the same God who was faithful before will be faithful again.


Church Announcements

Thanksgiving Sunday – November 23th:
Join us as we gather for a special time of worship and gratitude. It’s the perfect way to begin the Advent season with thankful hearts.

Advent Series Begins November 30th:
Invite your friends and family to our Christmas series: Breaking The Silence.” This Christmas series examines Jesus’ arrival after the “four hundred years of silence.” You will be encouraged to worship God for his faithfulness and trust in Jesus’ assured return.

There will be no Sunday Night services during the month of December. Take this time and spend it with your family and friends celebrating our King!

Don’t forget to pick up your awesome HFA apparel if you ordered it. You must pay for it before receiving it.


Reflection for the Week

Joy is not the absence of hardship — it’s the presence of Jesus.
As we count down to Christmas, let’s not rush past the waiting. Let’s rejoice in it.

Because even in the in-between moments, God is working, hearts are softening, and His promise is still true:

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…” (Isaiah 9:6)

So, keep your eyes lifted and your heart joyful —
Christmas is coming, and so is the Light of the World.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.”

— Luke 3:4

A Note from the Pastor

Can you believe we’re already in the middle of November? Thanksgiving is almost here, and right behind it — Christmas! Decorations are going up, plans are being made, and before we know it, the calendar will turn to December.

But before the rush of the season sweeps us away, let’s pause for a moment. The second week of November is a perfect time to begin preparing our hearts for what Christmas is really about — not the presents, but His presence.

As John the Baptist once said, “Prepare the way for the Lord.” That’s our calling too — to make room for Jesus in our lives, homes, and hearts.

So as we continue our Countdown to Christmas, let’s not just count the days — let’s make the days count.

Be The One with love and anticipation,

Pastor Shannon  


Countdown Thought: Preparing the Way

When John the Baptist began preaching, he wasn’t just talking about clearing a road; he was talking about clearing the heart. Our world is noisy, busy, and full of distractions — and it’s easy to let that noise crowd out the quiet joy of Christ. Preparing for Christmas isn’t about perfect decorations or finding the best gifts. It’s about making space for Jesus in our everyday lives.

Here’s how we can begin:

Slow down before the season speeds up.
Take a few moments each day for prayer and Scripture. Even five minutes can re-center your heart.
Notice God’s blessings now.
Before we rush into Christmas lists, let’s make a gratitude list. What has God done in your life this year?
Reach out in love.
Maybe “preparing the way” means forgiving someone, encouraging a friend, or serving a neighbor in need.

When we do these things, we’re not just counting down to Christmas — we’re inviting Christ to come closer. 


Scripture Assignment

Take a few moments this week to read Luke 1–2. Ask God to show you something new about the miracle of Jesus’ coming.


Reflection for the Week

As we move through these final weeks of November, remember: Christmas isn’t something we rush to — it’s something we prepare for.

So let’s begin the countdown not with stress, but with stillness.

Let’s quiet our hearts, lift our eyes, and get ready for the greatest story ever told —the moment when Heaven came to Earth and God’s love took on flesh

Nov 1, 2025

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.”

Isaiah 9:2

A Note from the Pastor

It’s hard to believe it’s already November! The leaves are falling, the air is crisp, and soon the sounds of Christmas will fill the world around us. While stores are setting out decorations and holiday ads are everywhere, this is also a powerful time for us as believers to prepare our hearts for what Christmas truly means.

This year, each week’s newsletter until Christmas will be your invitation to join me in a “Countdown to Christmas.” Over the next several weeks, let’s intentionally focus on the hope, peace, joy, and love that came into the world when Jesus was born.

Before we rush into the hustle and bustle of December, November gives us a chance to slow down and look up. It’s the perfect time to realign our hearts with Christ — to remember that Christmas isn’t just a day on the calendar, but a story that changes everything.

Let’s begin the countdown together — one week, one prayer, and one act of love at a time.

Be The One with anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


The Countdown to Christmas Starts Now

1. Begin with Gratitude

Before the tinsel and trees, let’s start with thankfulness. November reminds us that a grateful heart prepares the way for a joyful Christmas.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1

Take time this week to thank God not just for what you have, but for who He is — the Giver of every good gift.


2. Watch for His Light

Time changes tonight, so as the days grow shorter and the nights darker, we are reminded of the promise that a light has come into the world. Jesus brings light into every shadow, hope into every hardship.

“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” – John 1:9

Ask God to shine His light in your life this month — in your home, your work, and your relationships.


3. Prepare Your Heart Early

Advent doesn’t start until December, but spiritual preparation begins now. Use this first week of November to refocus your priorities and make room for Jesus.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.” – Luke 3:4

Maybe that means letting go of busyness, or carving out time each day to read Scripture. Whatever it looks like for you, start preparing now.


Church Announcements

  • Tomorrow Night Sunday November 2:
    Fireside Fellowship 5pm, Firepit, Hotdogs, Smores, and games for all ages. If you want to bring chili for the hotdogs you are more than welcome to do so.
  • Tomorrow we will be announcing something special we will be doing instead our regular Thanksgiving Giveback. It be just as special, I promise.
  • Thanksgiving Series “I Give Thanks” starts tomorrow November 2.

This series looks at the thanksgiving prayers in Paul’s epistles and uses four different points of thanks that Paul offers to God as a way to inspire gratitude and praise in our hearts as we enter the Thanksgiving and holiday season.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18


Final Thought

November is more than just a month of falling leaves and pumpkin pie — it’s the doorway to the miracle of Christmas. As we step through it, let’s keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the Light of the World.

The countdown has begun… (54 days till Christmas) and it starts right now, with a grateful heart and an eager spirit.

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.”Ecclesiastes 3:1 

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, we’re reminded that life is made up of seasons—both in nature and in our walk with God. Just as we can’t rush spring or hold back autumn, we can’t always control the seasons of our lives. But what we can do is trust the One who holds every season in His hands. 

Maybe you’re in a season of growth, where God is planting new dreams in your heart. Or maybe you’re in a season of pruning, where He’s gently removing what no longer bears fruit. Some of us might be in a season of rest, where God says, “Be still and know that I am God.” 

No matter what season you find yourself in, remember this: every season has a purpose. Every change carries a promise. And through it all, God remains faithful. 

As a church, we too are moving through seasons. We’ve seen God bring new faces, stir up new ministries, and breathe fresh life into familiar places. With each change, He is preparing us for what’s next—calling us to deeper unity, greater faith, and renewed passion for His mission. 

So let’s embrace this season together. Let’s thank God for what He’s done and trust Him for what’s to come. Because even when the seasons change… our God never does. 

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon


A Note from Pastor’s Desk:
Church family, as we enter this new season, I’m filled with gratitude for each of you. I see God at work in so many ways—through your faithfulness, your service, and your love for one another. My prayer is that we won’t just watch this season change, but that we’ll grow through it together. Let’s continue to seek God’s will and stay sensitive to what He’s doing among us. Be The One, because the best is still ahead!

Over the past few months, I have been reading and reflecting on a book titled “The Great Dechurching.” The data and stories in that book have caused me to pause and ask hard questions:

Why are so many people stepping away from the church?

What role might we be playing — and what role can we play — in inviting people back?

This edition of our newsletter is dedicated to exploring insights from the book. My hope is that these reflections will stir our hearts, sharpen our mission, and deepen our love — not just for those who are already here, but for those who once were, or who might be in the future.

Let me just make things clear here, I know and recognize that this is a book written by two men, and they have done a lot of work researching and writing for this book. I appreciate and honor their work. Within this newsletter are a lot of my own takeaways, but I also lean on others and their research as well. Please take that into consideration while reading this newsletter.

Nevertheless, there is a pandemic within the church and we have to do something about it. Are you ready?  


What is “The Great Dechurching?”

  • The authors argue that America is undergoing the largest and fastest religious shift in its history — but in reverse of revival.
  • Roughly 40 million Americans have left church attendance over the past 25 years. 
  • For the first time in decades, the number of adults who do not belong to a church outpaces those who do. 

The book’s project is not just diagnostic — it’s also strategic. It seeks to understand who is leaving, why, and what might lead some to return.


Profiles of the Dechurched

One of the strengths of The Great Dechurching is how it uses research and composite profiles to make the trends more human. The authors identify several major “types” of dechurched evangelicals. 

ProfileDescriptionKey Features / Considerations
Cultural ChristiansThe largest subsetThey often hold weak doctrinal convictions, drifted out through life rhythms more than crisis, but many are open to returning. 
Dechurched Mainstream EvangelicalsLifelong believers who stopped attendingThey retain orthodox beliefs, but lost the habit (especially after life transitions like moving). 
ExvangelicalsIntentional, sometimes permanent, departureMany cite deep hurt, trauma, or disillusionment with church culture. 
Dechurched BIPOCThose whose dechurching is shaped by race, culture, and identityTheir experience may include feeling marginalized, culturally out of place, or unheard. 
Dechurched Mainline / Catholic & ProtestantNot exclusively evangelicalThe broader shift includes those from mainline and historic churches too. 

Takeaway: The reasons people leave are varied — not all hurt, not all rebellion. Many simply drifted. And for many, an invitation or relational bridge could make all the difference. 


Why Are People Leaving? (and What’s Pulling Them Away)

The authors categorize motivations into beliefs, behavior, and belonging — the three “Bs.” 

1. Beliefs

  • Some feel the church no longer answers their doubts or questions.
  • Others see inconsistency between what the church preaches and how it acts.
  • Political polarization and misuse of authority have also driven disillusionment. 

2. Behavior

  • Life transitions (moving, jobs, marriage, kids) disrupt habits.
  • Attendance became inconvenient.
  • The “inertia effect” — once someone steps away, it becomes easier to stay away.

3. Belonging

  • Many left because they never felt loved, accepted, or known. 
  • Some say the church felt foreign or culturally distant.
  • The deepest barrier may not be theological, but relational.

One especially sobering insight: “casual dechurching” is more common than one might expect. Many people slide away, not because of a crisis of faith, but simply because life changes gradually pull them apart from the church.


Reasons for Hope

Despite the sobering trends, The Great Dechurching is not a book of despair. It offers hope and direction. Here are some of the key encouragements:

  • About 51% of dechurched evangelicals say they might return someday. 
  • Many maintain orthodox beliefs; the shift is often more about habit and relational connection than doctrinal abandonment. 
  • Belonging, more than persuasion, is often the “hinge” on which a return decision rests.
  • The authors call for relational wisdom — posture marked by quiet, calm curiosity — as a better way to engage than debate or coercion.
  • The church is invited into exile — to lose its grip on power, to serve from the margins, and to rediscover dependence on God’s grace.

Questions for Reflection for our Families

  1. Can you think of someone in your life who has drifted away from church? What might be their story?
  2. Which of the three “Bs” (believe, behave, belong) do you sense we struggle with most as a congregation?
  3. What might it look like for us to cultivate relational wisdom in how we talk and live together?
  4. How might we re-imagine our practices so that belonging is built in, especially for newcomers or those unsure?
  5. As a church, are there places where we’ve prioritized power or prestige over humility and service?

What You Can Do

How you can help:

  • Identify one person in your social circle who has drifted away, and extend a personal, low-pressure invitation — “I miss you; would you come with me this Sunday?”
  • Be intentional about friendships across generations. Invest time in people who are less familiar or less like you.
  • Pray for humility in our church — that we would listen more than lecture, serve more than command.
  • If you have gifts in hospitality, visitation, or relational ministry, Please let the Pastoral team know.

Closing Word

Let us not approach this moment with fear or despair, but with humility, hope, and resolve. If The Great Dechurching can teach anything, it is that much of what divides is healed through presencelistening, and steadfast love. The church is not a show, but a family. And every member matters. 

After seeing these reports, I’m thrilled to share that our story looks very different. We are in the midst of revival! It may not match what others define as revival, but lives are being changed, people are coming home to the church, and hearts are being awakened to a real relationship with Jesus Christ.

May God in his grace continue to draw many back, and may he continue to draw us ever more deeply into his heart of compassion and wisdom.

Don’t forget to Be The One!

Pastor Shannon

“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.”

Ezekiel 22:30

God is still looking for people who will stand in the gap—people who will intercede, serve, love, and live faithfully so that others can come to know Christ. Standing in the gap means being willing to step in where there’s a need, to pray where there’s a burden, and to fight spiritually for those who cannot fight for themselves.

This month, let’s ask ourselves: Where is God calling me to stand in the gap? It could be for your family, for a neighbor, for our church, for our nation, or for someone who doesn’t yet know Christ. 


Prayer Focus

This month, let’s focus our prayers on:

  • Families in our church who are struggling.
  • Our community leaders, that they may have wisdom.
  • The next generation, that they may encounter God’s truth.
  • Revival in our homes, our city, and our nation. 

Scripture

“And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land…” (Ezekiel 22:30)

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) 


Church News

Sermon Series: Living in the Last Days, ends this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service last Sunday: We celebrated 8 baptisms and i am continuing to receive  testimonies messages of great reports throughout the week.

Fall Fest: This might look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Thought

Standing in the gap is not always glamorous—it often happens in the secret place of prayer or in quiet acts of love. But heaven notices. Let’s be a church that stands strong, together, in the gap for others. 

Remember to Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.”

Matthew 5:6

All across history, every great move of God began with a hunger that stirred in the hearts of His people. When men and women longed for more than routine, more than religion, and cried out for the living presence of God—He responded.

We are living in a time when distractions are everywhere, but there is a mighty wave of spiritual hunger rising. People are realizing that nothing in this world can satisfy the soul like Jesus. This hunger is not a weakness—it is an invitation to be filled.

Are you hungry for a deeper move of God in your life, your family, and our church? Let’s position ourselves in prayer, worship, and obedience so that when the wave of His Spirit comes, we are ready to be swept up in His power. 


Devotional Thought

Hunger is a gift. It proves you were made for more than what this world offers. God promises to fill those who seek Him with all their heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

Revival is never accidental—it comes when God’s people are desperate for His presence. Just like waves in the ocean, God’s Spirit moves in power and in timing. Hunger creates the conditions for the wave to rise.  

How Do We Stir Our Hunger?

Pray daily – Not just for needs, but for His presence.

Fast – Lay something down to show God your desire for Him above all else.

Worship – Even when you don’t “feel it,” worship draws His Spirit close.

Expect – Believe that God is ready to move here and now. 


Church News

Our Wednesday Nights are exploding!

The last several midweek services have been nothing short of Amazing! If you haven’t attended you are missing out. We have been averaging close to 150 each week; 80-100 kids and youth. I want to encourage you to bring your kids, your neighbors kids and yourself to come experience an HFA midweek. You will not be disappointed.

Sermon Series. The current series: Living in the Last Days continues this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service this coming Sunday AM. If you want to be baptized, please let Pastor Shannon know. Bring a change of clothes (nothing white) and a towel.

Fall Fest. This night may look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Encouragement

The world is hungry for entertainment, success, and pleasure — but the church must be hungry for the living God. When a body of believers hungers together, God pours out His Spirit in ways that change communities, families, and nations.

Let’s Be that church. Let’s Be that people. Let’s ride the mighty wave of hunger into a fresh move of God! 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

HFA Weekly Newsletter
1.25.2026
There is something sacred about the first snowfall.The world slows down. Noise is softened. Rough edges are covered. What was once ordinary suddenly becomes beautiful. Streets, fields, rooftops—everything looks new again beneath a blanket of white.

Snow has a way of reminding us that God still speaks in quiet ways.

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” — Isaiah 1:18

A Picture of Grace

Snow does not argue with the ground beneath it. It simply falls—freely, gently, generously. In the same way, God’s grace is not earned; it is given. It covers what is broken, worn, and stained, and declares it clean. Winter shows us that God is never absent, even when things seem still or cold. Beneath the snow, life is being protected, prepared, and preserved for what is to come.

God at Work in the Stillness

Snow invites us to pause. To breathe. To listen. To notice.

In Scripture, God often does His deepest work in quiet seasons—when hearts are still enough to hear Him. Snowy days remind us that rest is holy and waiting is not wasted.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10

A Call to Reflect

As you look out at the white landscape today, let it stir your heart: Where might God be offering you a fresh start? What burdens is He inviting you to lay down? How can you reflect His purity, peace, and grace to others?

A Prayer for the Season

Lord, thank You for the beauty You paint across your creation. As the world grows quiet after the snow has feallen, help us to hear Your voice more clearly. Cover our hearts with Your grace. Renew our spirits. Teach us to trust You in every season. Amen.


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

As we move further into this new year, I am struck by the beauty of the season God has placed us in. It is a season of expectation. To live with expectation is not merely to wait for time to pass; it is to wait with a “stretched-out neck,” eagerly looking for where God is already moving.

Whether you are in a mountaintop moment or a valley of testing, remember that our God is a promise-keeper. I want to personally challenge each of you to remain steadfast in your daily Bible reading. The Word of God is not just a book of history; it is “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12).

When we neglect the Scriptures, we try to fight spiritual battles on an empty stomach. I encourage you to set aside even fifteen minutes this week to sit with the Word. Let it anchor your soul and sharpen your vision for what He is doing in your life.

The world around us can feel turbulent, but our foundation is unshakable. To stay strong in faith means to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of it all. Strength doesn’t always look like a loud victory; sometimes, it is the quiet resolve to trust God one more day. If you feel weary, lean into the grace that is sufficient for you. You are not walking this path alone.

Finally, I am so excited about our upcoming Marriage Weekend on February 7th (9-noon) and 8th. Marriage is one of the most profound mirrors of Christ’s love for the Church, yet it requires intentional cultivation.

Whether you have been married for five months or fifty years, we invite you to join us for this special time of refreshment, laughter, and biblical teaching. Let’s make the choice to invest in our homes so that they may be beacons of light in our community.

Expect great things from God this week.  We are praying for you, and we can’t wait to see how He moves in our midst.

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

The “Story of Redemption” Annual Plan

Quarter 1: Foundations & The Covenant

January: The Beginnings. Genesis and Job. (See the creation of the world and the oldest questions of human suffering).

February: Deliverance. Exodus and Leviticus. (The escape from Egypt and the blueprint for holiness).

March: The Wilderness. Numbers and Deuteronomy. (Lessons on faithfulness and preparing to enter the promised land).


Quarter 2: Kingdoms & Wisdom

April: Possession & Judges. Joshua, Judges, Ruth. (The struggle for the land and the need for a King).

May: The United Kingdom. 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 Chronicles. (The lives of Saul, David, and Solomon).

June: Heart & Soul. Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon. (Taking a break from history to focus on prayer and wisdom).


Quarter 3: Exile & The Prophets

July: The Divided Kingdom. 1 & 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles. (The rise and fall of Israel and Judah).

August: Major Prophets. Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations. (Warnings of judgment and promises of a future Savior).

September: Minor Prophets & Return. Ezekiel, Daniel, and the “Book of the Twelve” (Hosea–Malachi).


Quarter 4: The Messiah & The Church

October: The Gospels. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. (The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus).

November: The Early Church. Acts, Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians. (The spread of the Gospel and the core of Christian doctrine).

December: The Epistles & Revelation. Ephesians through Jude, and Revelation. (Instructions for living and the ultimate hope of Christ’s return).


3 Tips for “Meaningful” Reading

1. The “One Verse” Rule: Don’t just read to check a box. Every day, pick one verse that stood out and write it down or meditate on it during your commute/lunch.

2. Use a “Bridge” Prayer: Before you open the book, pray: “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law” (Psalm 119:18).

3. Don’t Panic if You Fall Behind: If you miss three days, don’t try to read 12 chapters in one sitting. Just start where you are today. The goal is transformation, not just completion.

Week 6 – “The Light Breaks Through”

Only 19 Days Until Christmas!

“The true Light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” — John 1:9


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

We’ve officially stepped into December — the month where excitement rises, calendars fill up, and hearts begin to lean in toward the miracle of Christmas. And now, with only 19 days left, we continue our countdown with anticipation and wonder.

For centuries, the world waited in darkness for the promised Messiah. But the moment Jesus entered the world, light broke through.
Not the soft glow of a candle, but a light strong enough to shatter sin, silence fear, and bring hope to the broken.

As we move deeper into this Advent season, let’s look for the Light of Christ breaking through in our own lives — in our homes, in our church, in our hearts.

Be The One with hope and joy,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Focus: “The Light Breaks Through”

Advent reminds us that God doesn’t wait for perfect conditions to work — He breaks into the darkness right where we are.

Three Truths This Week:

1. Jesus Brings Light Into Our Dark Places.

Whether it’s fear, worry, or weariness, the light of Christ reaches places nothing else can.
Christmas isn’t just a celebration — it’s an invasion of hope.

2. Light Always Wins Over Darkness.

John 1:5 says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
Darkness can resist, but it cannot defeat Jesus.

3. We Are Called to Carry His Light.

As Christmas approaches, your smile, your words, your kindness may be the light someone desperately needs.
This season isn’t about shining on our own, but reflecting His glory.


Scripture Focus This Week

  • John 1:1–14
  • Isaiah 60:1 – “Arise, shine, for your light has come…”
  • Matthew 5:14–16 – “You are the light of the world…”

Spend a few minutes this week sitting in quiet — maybe by the glow of your Christmas tree — and thank Jesus for being the Light that never dims.


Church Announcements:

  • Series Continues – “Breaking the Silence”
  • December 14 will be our kids church Christmas program.

Reflection for the Week

The world may feel dark, busy, or heavy —
but the message of Christmas is simple and unchanging:

The Light has come.
The Light is here.
The Light is breaking through.

As we count down the final 19 days, keep your eyes open.
You’ll see the light of Christ in places you never expected.

I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

— Luke 2:10 


A Note from the Pastor

As the days grow shorter and Thanksgiving draws near, we find ourselves standing on the edge of one of the most joyful seasons of the year. The Christmas lights are beginning to appear, and soon we’ll hear carols that remind us of the night heaven touched earth.

But before the celebration begins, we find ourselves in a season of waiting — waiting for gatherings, waiting for Christmas morning, waiting for promises fulfilled. Waiting isn’t always easy. Yet in God’s kingdom, waiting is never wasted.

It’s in the waiting that our faith grows and our hearts learn to trust. That’s why this week’s focus in our Countdown to Christmas is Joy in the Waiting. Because even when the answer hasn’t come, and the prayer isn’t yet fulfilled, we can still rejoice — not because everything is perfect, but because God is present.

Be The One with joy and anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Thought: Joy in the Waiting

When the angel appeared to the shepherds, the message wasn’t “Be happy because life is easy.”
It was “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

True joy doesn’t come from circumstances — it comes from Christ. And sometimes, it’s in the waiting that we discover that most deeply.

Here’s how we can practice joy this week:

Choose Joy Daily.
Joy isn’t a mood — it’s a mindset. Wake up and thank God for one thing before anything else

Stay Prayerful in the Waiting.
Philippians 4:6–7 reminds us to bring everything to God in prayer. When we pray with thanksgiving, peace follows.

Spread Joy to Others.
Send a card, make a call, or serve someone in need. When we share joy, it multiplies. Even when life feels uncertain, we can still say, “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”  

Scripture Focus:

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” — Romans 15:13

Take time this week to reflect on the ways God has shown His faithfulness in your past. Joy grows when we remember that the same God who was faithful before will be faithful again.


Church Announcements

Thanksgiving Sunday – November 23th:
Join us as we gather for a special time of worship and gratitude. It’s the perfect way to begin the Advent season with thankful hearts.

Advent Series Begins November 30th:
Invite your friends and family to our Christmas series: Breaking The Silence.” This Christmas series examines Jesus’ arrival after the “four hundred years of silence.” You will be encouraged to worship God for his faithfulness and trust in Jesus’ assured return.

There will be no Sunday Night services during the month of December. Take this time and spend it with your family and friends celebrating our King!

Don’t forget to pick up your awesome HFA apparel if you ordered it. You must pay for it before receiving it.


Reflection for the Week

Joy is not the absence of hardship — it’s the presence of Jesus.
As we count down to Christmas, let’s not rush past the waiting. Let’s rejoice in it.

Because even in the in-between moments, God is working, hearts are softening, and His promise is still true:

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…” (Isaiah 9:6)

So, keep your eyes lifted and your heart joyful —
Christmas is coming, and so is the Light of the World.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.”

— Luke 3:4

A Note from the Pastor

Can you believe we’re already in the middle of November? Thanksgiving is almost here, and right behind it — Christmas! Decorations are going up, plans are being made, and before we know it, the calendar will turn to December.

But before the rush of the season sweeps us away, let’s pause for a moment. The second week of November is a perfect time to begin preparing our hearts for what Christmas is really about — not the presents, but His presence.

As John the Baptist once said, “Prepare the way for the Lord.” That’s our calling too — to make room for Jesus in our lives, homes, and hearts.

So as we continue our Countdown to Christmas, let’s not just count the days — let’s make the days count.

Be The One with love and anticipation,

Pastor Shannon  


Countdown Thought: Preparing the Way

When John the Baptist began preaching, he wasn’t just talking about clearing a road; he was talking about clearing the heart. Our world is noisy, busy, and full of distractions — and it’s easy to let that noise crowd out the quiet joy of Christ. Preparing for Christmas isn’t about perfect decorations or finding the best gifts. It’s about making space for Jesus in our everyday lives.

Here’s how we can begin:

Slow down before the season speeds up.
Take a few moments each day for prayer and Scripture. Even five minutes can re-center your heart.
Notice God’s blessings now.
Before we rush into Christmas lists, let’s make a gratitude list. What has God done in your life this year?
Reach out in love.
Maybe “preparing the way” means forgiving someone, encouraging a friend, or serving a neighbor in need.

When we do these things, we’re not just counting down to Christmas — we’re inviting Christ to come closer. 


Scripture Assignment

Take a few moments this week to read Luke 1–2. Ask God to show you something new about the miracle of Jesus’ coming.


Reflection for the Week

As we move through these final weeks of November, remember: Christmas isn’t something we rush to — it’s something we prepare for.

So let’s begin the countdown not with stress, but with stillness.

Let’s quiet our hearts, lift our eyes, and get ready for the greatest story ever told —the moment when Heaven came to Earth and God’s love took on flesh

Nov 1, 2025

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.”

Isaiah 9:2

A Note from the Pastor

It’s hard to believe it’s already November! The leaves are falling, the air is crisp, and soon the sounds of Christmas will fill the world around us. While stores are setting out decorations and holiday ads are everywhere, this is also a powerful time for us as believers to prepare our hearts for what Christmas truly means.

This year, each week’s newsletter until Christmas will be your invitation to join me in a “Countdown to Christmas.” Over the next several weeks, let’s intentionally focus on the hope, peace, joy, and love that came into the world when Jesus was born.

Before we rush into the hustle and bustle of December, November gives us a chance to slow down and look up. It’s the perfect time to realign our hearts with Christ — to remember that Christmas isn’t just a day on the calendar, but a story that changes everything.

Let’s begin the countdown together — one week, one prayer, and one act of love at a time.

Be The One with anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


The Countdown to Christmas Starts Now

1. Begin with Gratitude

Before the tinsel and trees, let’s start with thankfulness. November reminds us that a grateful heart prepares the way for a joyful Christmas.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1

Take time this week to thank God not just for what you have, but for who He is — the Giver of every good gift.


2. Watch for His Light

Time changes tonight, so as the days grow shorter and the nights darker, we are reminded of the promise that a light has come into the world. Jesus brings light into every shadow, hope into every hardship.

“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” – John 1:9

Ask God to shine His light in your life this month — in your home, your work, and your relationships.


3. Prepare Your Heart Early

Advent doesn’t start until December, but spiritual preparation begins now. Use this first week of November to refocus your priorities and make room for Jesus.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.” – Luke 3:4

Maybe that means letting go of busyness, or carving out time each day to read Scripture. Whatever it looks like for you, start preparing now.


Church Announcements

  • Tomorrow Night Sunday November 2:
    Fireside Fellowship 5pm, Firepit, Hotdogs, Smores, and games for all ages. If you want to bring chili for the hotdogs you are more than welcome to do so.
  • Tomorrow we will be announcing something special we will be doing instead our regular Thanksgiving Giveback. It be just as special, I promise.
  • Thanksgiving Series “I Give Thanks” starts tomorrow November 2.

This series looks at the thanksgiving prayers in Paul’s epistles and uses four different points of thanks that Paul offers to God as a way to inspire gratitude and praise in our hearts as we enter the Thanksgiving and holiday season.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18


Final Thought

November is more than just a month of falling leaves and pumpkin pie — it’s the doorway to the miracle of Christmas. As we step through it, let’s keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the Light of the World.

The countdown has begun… (54 days till Christmas) and it starts right now, with a grateful heart and an eager spirit.

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.”Ecclesiastes 3:1 

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, we’re reminded that life is made up of seasons—both in nature and in our walk with God. Just as we can’t rush spring or hold back autumn, we can’t always control the seasons of our lives. But what we can do is trust the One who holds every season in His hands. 

Maybe you’re in a season of growth, where God is planting new dreams in your heart. Or maybe you’re in a season of pruning, where He’s gently removing what no longer bears fruit. Some of us might be in a season of rest, where God says, “Be still and know that I am God.” 

No matter what season you find yourself in, remember this: every season has a purpose. Every change carries a promise. And through it all, God remains faithful. 

As a church, we too are moving through seasons. We’ve seen God bring new faces, stir up new ministries, and breathe fresh life into familiar places. With each change, He is preparing us for what’s next—calling us to deeper unity, greater faith, and renewed passion for His mission. 

So let’s embrace this season together. Let’s thank God for what He’s done and trust Him for what’s to come. Because even when the seasons change… our God never does. 

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon


A Note from Pastor’s Desk:
Church family, as we enter this new season, I’m filled with gratitude for each of you. I see God at work in so many ways—through your faithfulness, your service, and your love for one another. My prayer is that we won’t just watch this season change, but that we’ll grow through it together. Let’s continue to seek God’s will and stay sensitive to what He’s doing among us. Be The One, because the best is still ahead!

Over the past few months, I have been reading and reflecting on a book titled “The Great Dechurching.” The data and stories in that book have caused me to pause and ask hard questions:

Why are so many people stepping away from the church?

What role might we be playing — and what role can we play — in inviting people back?

This edition of our newsletter is dedicated to exploring insights from the book. My hope is that these reflections will stir our hearts, sharpen our mission, and deepen our love — not just for those who are already here, but for those who once were, or who might be in the future.

Let me just make things clear here, I know and recognize that this is a book written by two men, and they have done a lot of work researching and writing for this book. I appreciate and honor their work. Within this newsletter are a lot of my own takeaways, but I also lean on others and their research as well. Please take that into consideration while reading this newsletter.

Nevertheless, there is a pandemic within the church and we have to do something about it. Are you ready?  


What is “The Great Dechurching?”

  • The authors argue that America is undergoing the largest and fastest religious shift in its history — but in reverse of revival.
  • Roughly 40 million Americans have left church attendance over the past 25 years. 
  • For the first time in decades, the number of adults who do not belong to a church outpaces those who do. 

The book’s project is not just diagnostic — it’s also strategic. It seeks to understand who is leaving, why, and what might lead some to return.


Profiles of the Dechurched

One of the strengths of The Great Dechurching is how it uses research and composite profiles to make the trends more human. The authors identify several major “types” of dechurched evangelicals. 

ProfileDescriptionKey Features / Considerations
Cultural ChristiansThe largest subsetThey often hold weak doctrinal convictions, drifted out through life rhythms more than crisis, but many are open to returning. 
Dechurched Mainstream EvangelicalsLifelong believers who stopped attendingThey retain orthodox beliefs, but lost the habit (especially after life transitions like moving). 
ExvangelicalsIntentional, sometimes permanent, departureMany cite deep hurt, trauma, or disillusionment with church culture. 
Dechurched BIPOCThose whose dechurching is shaped by race, culture, and identityTheir experience may include feeling marginalized, culturally out of place, or unheard. 
Dechurched Mainline / Catholic & ProtestantNot exclusively evangelicalThe broader shift includes those from mainline and historic churches too. 

Takeaway: The reasons people leave are varied — not all hurt, not all rebellion. Many simply drifted. And for many, an invitation or relational bridge could make all the difference. 


Why Are People Leaving? (and What’s Pulling Them Away)

The authors categorize motivations into beliefs, behavior, and belonging — the three “Bs.” 

1. Beliefs

  • Some feel the church no longer answers their doubts or questions.
  • Others see inconsistency between what the church preaches and how it acts.
  • Political polarization and misuse of authority have also driven disillusionment. 

2. Behavior

  • Life transitions (moving, jobs, marriage, kids) disrupt habits.
  • Attendance became inconvenient.
  • The “inertia effect” — once someone steps away, it becomes easier to stay away.

3. Belonging

  • Many left because they never felt loved, accepted, or known. 
  • Some say the church felt foreign or culturally distant.
  • The deepest barrier may not be theological, but relational.

One especially sobering insight: “casual dechurching” is more common than one might expect. Many people slide away, not because of a crisis of faith, but simply because life changes gradually pull them apart from the church.


Reasons for Hope

Despite the sobering trends, The Great Dechurching is not a book of despair. It offers hope and direction. Here are some of the key encouragements:

  • About 51% of dechurched evangelicals say they might return someday. 
  • Many maintain orthodox beliefs; the shift is often more about habit and relational connection than doctrinal abandonment. 
  • Belonging, more than persuasion, is often the “hinge” on which a return decision rests.
  • The authors call for relational wisdom — posture marked by quiet, calm curiosity — as a better way to engage than debate or coercion.
  • The church is invited into exile — to lose its grip on power, to serve from the margins, and to rediscover dependence on God’s grace.

Questions for Reflection for our Families

  1. Can you think of someone in your life who has drifted away from church? What might be their story?
  2. Which of the three “Bs” (believe, behave, belong) do you sense we struggle with most as a congregation?
  3. What might it look like for us to cultivate relational wisdom in how we talk and live together?
  4. How might we re-imagine our practices so that belonging is built in, especially for newcomers or those unsure?
  5. As a church, are there places where we’ve prioritized power or prestige over humility and service?

What You Can Do

How you can help:

  • Identify one person in your social circle who has drifted away, and extend a personal, low-pressure invitation — “I miss you; would you come with me this Sunday?”
  • Be intentional about friendships across generations. Invest time in people who are less familiar or less like you.
  • Pray for humility in our church — that we would listen more than lecture, serve more than command.
  • If you have gifts in hospitality, visitation, or relational ministry, Please let the Pastoral team know.

Closing Word

Let us not approach this moment with fear or despair, but with humility, hope, and resolve. If The Great Dechurching can teach anything, it is that much of what divides is healed through presencelistening, and steadfast love. The church is not a show, but a family. And every member matters. 

After seeing these reports, I’m thrilled to share that our story looks very different. We are in the midst of revival! It may not match what others define as revival, but lives are being changed, people are coming home to the church, and hearts are being awakened to a real relationship with Jesus Christ.

May God in his grace continue to draw many back, and may he continue to draw us ever more deeply into his heart of compassion and wisdom.

Don’t forget to Be The One!

Pastor Shannon

“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.”

Ezekiel 22:30

God is still looking for people who will stand in the gap—people who will intercede, serve, love, and live faithfully so that others can come to know Christ. Standing in the gap means being willing to step in where there’s a need, to pray where there’s a burden, and to fight spiritually for those who cannot fight for themselves.

This month, let’s ask ourselves: Where is God calling me to stand in the gap? It could be for your family, for a neighbor, for our church, for our nation, or for someone who doesn’t yet know Christ. 


Prayer Focus

This month, let’s focus our prayers on:

  • Families in our church who are struggling.
  • Our community leaders, that they may have wisdom.
  • The next generation, that they may encounter God’s truth.
  • Revival in our homes, our city, and our nation. 

Scripture

“And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land…” (Ezekiel 22:30)

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) 


Church News

Sermon Series: Living in the Last Days, ends this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service last Sunday: We celebrated 8 baptisms and i am continuing to receive  testimonies messages of great reports throughout the week.

Fall Fest: This might look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Thought

Standing in the gap is not always glamorous—it often happens in the secret place of prayer or in quiet acts of love. But heaven notices. Let’s be a church that stands strong, together, in the gap for others. 

Remember to Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.”

Matthew 5:6

All across history, every great move of God began with a hunger that stirred in the hearts of His people. When men and women longed for more than routine, more than religion, and cried out for the living presence of God—He responded.

We are living in a time when distractions are everywhere, but there is a mighty wave of spiritual hunger rising. People are realizing that nothing in this world can satisfy the soul like Jesus. This hunger is not a weakness—it is an invitation to be filled.

Are you hungry for a deeper move of God in your life, your family, and our church? Let’s position ourselves in prayer, worship, and obedience so that when the wave of His Spirit comes, we are ready to be swept up in His power. 


Devotional Thought

Hunger is a gift. It proves you were made for more than what this world offers. God promises to fill those who seek Him with all their heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

Revival is never accidental—it comes when God’s people are desperate for His presence. Just like waves in the ocean, God’s Spirit moves in power and in timing. Hunger creates the conditions for the wave to rise.  

How Do We Stir Our Hunger?

Pray daily – Not just for needs, but for His presence.

Fast – Lay something down to show God your desire for Him above all else.

Worship – Even when you don’t “feel it,” worship draws His Spirit close.

Expect – Believe that God is ready to move here and now. 


Church News

Our Wednesday Nights are exploding!

The last several midweek services have been nothing short of Amazing! If you haven’t attended you are missing out. We have been averaging close to 150 each week; 80-100 kids and youth. I want to encourage you to bring your kids, your neighbors kids and yourself to come experience an HFA midweek. You will not be disappointed.

Sermon Series. The current series: Living in the Last Days continues this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service this coming Sunday AM. If you want to be baptized, please let Pastor Shannon know. Bring a change of clothes (nothing white) and a towel.

Fall Fest. This night may look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Encouragement

The world is hungry for entertainment, success, and pleasure — but the church must be hungry for the living God. When a body of believers hungers together, God pours out His Spirit in ways that change communities, families, and nations.

Let’s Be that church. Let’s Be that people. Let’s ride the mighty wave of hunger into a fresh move of God! 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

HFA Weekly Newsletter
1.25.2026
There is something sacred about the first snowfall.The world slows down. Noise is softened. Rough edges are covered. What was once ordinary suddenly becomes beautiful. Streets, fields, rooftops—everything looks new again beneath a blanket of white.

Snow has a way of reminding us that God still speaks in quiet ways.

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” — Isaiah 1:18

A Picture of Grace

Snow does not argue with the ground beneath it. It simply falls—freely, gently, generously. In the same way, God’s grace is not earned; it is given. It covers what is broken, worn, and stained, and declares it clean. Winter shows us that God is never absent, even when things seem still or cold. Beneath the snow, life is being protected, prepared, and preserved for what is to come.

God at Work in the Stillness

Snow invites us to pause. To breathe. To listen. To notice.

In Scripture, God often does His deepest work in quiet seasons—when hearts are still enough to hear Him. Snowy days remind us that rest is holy and waiting is not wasted.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10

A Call to Reflect

As you look out at the white landscape today, let it stir your heart: Where might God be offering you a fresh start? What burdens is He inviting you to lay down? How can you reflect His purity, peace, and grace to others?

A Prayer for the Season

Lord, thank You for the beauty You paint across your creation. As the world grows quiet after the snow has feallen, help us to hear Your voice more clearly. Cover our hearts with Your grace. Renew our spirits. Teach us to trust You in every season. Amen.


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

As we move further into this new year, I am struck by the beauty of the season God has placed us in. It is a season of expectation. To live with expectation is not merely to wait for time to pass; it is to wait with a “stretched-out neck,” eagerly looking for where God is already moving.

Whether you are in a mountaintop moment or a valley of testing, remember that our God is a promise-keeper. I want to personally challenge each of you to remain steadfast in your daily Bible reading. The Word of God is not just a book of history; it is “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12).

When we neglect the Scriptures, we try to fight spiritual battles on an empty stomach. I encourage you to set aside even fifteen minutes this week to sit with the Word. Let it anchor your soul and sharpen your vision for what He is doing in your life.

The world around us can feel turbulent, but our foundation is unshakable. To stay strong in faith means to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of it all. Strength doesn’t always look like a loud victory; sometimes, it is the quiet resolve to trust God one more day. If you feel weary, lean into the grace that is sufficient for you. You are not walking this path alone.

Finally, I am so excited about our upcoming Marriage Weekend on February 7th (9-noon) and 8th. Marriage is one of the most profound mirrors of Christ’s love for the Church, yet it requires intentional cultivation.

Whether you have been married for five months or fifty years, we invite you to join us for this special time of refreshment, laughter, and biblical teaching. Let’s make the choice to invest in our homes so that they may be beacons of light in our community.

Expect great things from God this week.  We are praying for you, and we can’t wait to see how He moves in our midst.

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

The “Story of Redemption” Annual Plan

Quarter 1: Foundations & The Covenant

January: The Beginnings. Genesis and Job. (See the creation of the world and the oldest questions of human suffering).

February: Deliverance. Exodus and Leviticus. (The escape from Egypt and the blueprint for holiness).

March: The Wilderness. Numbers and Deuteronomy. (Lessons on faithfulness and preparing to enter the promised land).


Quarter 2: Kingdoms & Wisdom

April: Possession & Judges. Joshua, Judges, Ruth. (The struggle for the land and the need for a King).

May: The United Kingdom. 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 Chronicles. (The lives of Saul, David, and Solomon).

June: Heart & Soul. Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon. (Taking a break from history to focus on prayer and wisdom).


Quarter 3: Exile & The Prophets

July: The Divided Kingdom. 1 & 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles. (The rise and fall of Israel and Judah).

August: Major Prophets. Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations. (Warnings of judgment and promises of a future Savior).

September: Minor Prophets & Return. Ezekiel, Daniel, and the “Book of the Twelve” (Hosea–Malachi).


Quarter 4: The Messiah & The Church

October: The Gospels. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. (The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus).

November: The Early Church. Acts, Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians. (The spread of the Gospel and the core of Christian doctrine).

December: The Epistles & Revelation. Ephesians through Jude, and Revelation. (Instructions for living and the ultimate hope of Christ’s return).


3 Tips for “Meaningful” Reading

1. The “One Verse” Rule: Don’t just read to check a box. Every day, pick one verse that stood out and write it down or meditate on it during your commute/lunch.

2. Use a “Bridge” Prayer: Before you open the book, pray: “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law” (Psalm 119:18).

3. Don’t Panic if You Fall Behind: If you miss three days, don’t try to read 12 chapters in one sitting. Just start where you are today. The goal is transformation, not just completion.

Week 6 – “The Light Breaks Through”

Only 19 Days Until Christmas!

“The true Light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” — John 1:9


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

We’ve officially stepped into December — the month where excitement rises, calendars fill up, and hearts begin to lean in toward the miracle of Christmas. And now, with only 19 days left, we continue our countdown with anticipation and wonder.

For centuries, the world waited in darkness for the promised Messiah. But the moment Jesus entered the world, light broke through.
Not the soft glow of a candle, but a light strong enough to shatter sin, silence fear, and bring hope to the broken.

As we move deeper into this Advent season, let’s look for the Light of Christ breaking through in our own lives — in our homes, in our church, in our hearts.

Be The One with hope and joy,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Focus: “The Light Breaks Through”

Advent reminds us that God doesn’t wait for perfect conditions to work — He breaks into the darkness right where we are.

Three Truths This Week:

1. Jesus Brings Light Into Our Dark Places.

Whether it’s fear, worry, or weariness, the light of Christ reaches places nothing else can.
Christmas isn’t just a celebration — it’s an invasion of hope.

2. Light Always Wins Over Darkness.

John 1:5 says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
Darkness can resist, but it cannot defeat Jesus.

3. We Are Called to Carry His Light.

As Christmas approaches, your smile, your words, your kindness may be the light someone desperately needs.
This season isn’t about shining on our own, but reflecting His glory.


Scripture Focus This Week

  • John 1:1–14
  • Isaiah 60:1 – “Arise, shine, for your light has come…”
  • Matthew 5:14–16 – “You are the light of the world…”

Spend a few minutes this week sitting in quiet — maybe by the glow of your Christmas tree — and thank Jesus for being the Light that never dims.


Church Announcements:

  • Series Continues – “Breaking the Silence”
  • December 14 will be our kids church Christmas program.

Reflection for the Week

The world may feel dark, busy, or heavy —
but the message of Christmas is simple and unchanging:

The Light has come.
The Light is here.
The Light is breaking through.

As we count down the final 19 days, keep your eyes open.
You’ll see the light of Christ in places you never expected.

I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

— Luke 2:10 


A Note from the Pastor

As the days grow shorter and Thanksgiving draws near, we find ourselves standing on the edge of one of the most joyful seasons of the year. The Christmas lights are beginning to appear, and soon we’ll hear carols that remind us of the night heaven touched earth.

But before the celebration begins, we find ourselves in a season of waiting — waiting for gatherings, waiting for Christmas morning, waiting for promises fulfilled. Waiting isn’t always easy. Yet in God’s kingdom, waiting is never wasted.

It’s in the waiting that our faith grows and our hearts learn to trust. That’s why this week’s focus in our Countdown to Christmas is Joy in the Waiting. Because even when the answer hasn’t come, and the prayer isn’t yet fulfilled, we can still rejoice — not because everything is perfect, but because God is present.

Be The One with joy and anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Thought: Joy in the Waiting

When the angel appeared to the shepherds, the message wasn’t “Be happy because life is easy.”
It was “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

True joy doesn’t come from circumstances — it comes from Christ. And sometimes, it’s in the waiting that we discover that most deeply.

Here’s how we can practice joy this week:

Choose Joy Daily.
Joy isn’t a mood — it’s a mindset. Wake up and thank God for one thing before anything else

Stay Prayerful in the Waiting.
Philippians 4:6–7 reminds us to bring everything to God in prayer. When we pray with thanksgiving, peace follows.

Spread Joy to Others.
Send a card, make a call, or serve someone in need. When we share joy, it multiplies. Even when life feels uncertain, we can still say, “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”  

Scripture Focus:

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” — Romans 15:13

Take time this week to reflect on the ways God has shown His faithfulness in your past. Joy grows when we remember that the same God who was faithful before will be faithful again.


Church Announcements

Thanksgiving Sunday – November 23th:
Join us as we gather for a special time of worship and gratitude. It’s the perfect way to begin the Advent season with thankful hearts.

Advent Series Begins November 30th:
Invite your friends and family to our Christmas series: Breaking The Silence.” This Christmas series examines Jesus’ arrival after the “four hundred years of silence.” You will be encouraged to worship God for his faithfulness and trust in Jesus’ assured return.

There will be no Sunday Night services during the month of December. Take this time and spend it with your family and friends celebrating our King!

Don’t forget to pick up your awesome HFA apparel if you ordered it. You must pay for it before receiving it.


Reflection for the Week

Joy is not the absence of hardship — it’s the presence of Jesus.
As we count down to Christmas, let’s not rush past the waiting. Let’s rejoice in it.

Because even in the in-between moments, God is working, hearts are softening, and His promise is still true:

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…” (Isaiah 9:6)

So, keep your eyes lifted and your heart joyful —
Christmas is coming, and so is the Light of the World.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.”

— Luke 3:4

A Note from the Pastor

Can you believe we’re already in the middle of November? Thanksgiving is almost here, and right behind it — Christmas! Decorations are going up, plans are being made, and before we know it, the calendar will turn to December.

But before the rush of the season sweeps us away, let’s pause for a moment. The second week of November is a perfect time to begin preparing our hearts for what Christmas is really about — not the presents, but His presence.

As John the Baptist once said, “Prepare the way for the Lord.” That’s our calling too — to make room for Jesus in our lives, homes, and hearts.

So as we continue our Countdown to Christmas, let’s not just count the days — let’s make the days count.

Be The One with love and anticipation,

Pastor Shannon  


Countdown Thought: Preparing the Way

When John the Baptist began preaching, he wasn’t just talking about clearing a road; he was talking about clearing the heart. Our world is noisy, busy, and full of distractions — and it’s easy to let that noise crowd out the quiet joy of Christ. Preparing for Christmas isn’t about perfect decorations or finding the best gifts. It’s about making space for Jesus in our everyday lives.

Here’s how we can begin:

Slow down before the season speeds up.
Take a few moments each day for prayer and Scripture. Even five minutes can re-center your heart.
Notice God’s blessings now.
Before we rush into Christmas lists, let’s make a gratitude list. What has God done in your life this year?
Reach out in love.
Maybe “preparing the way” means forgiving someone, encouraging a friend, or serving a neighbor in need.

When we do these things, we’re not just counting down to Christmas — we’re inviting Christ to come closer. 


Scripture Assignment

Take a few moments this week to read Luke 1–2. Ask God to show you something new about the miracle of Jesus’ coming.


Reflection for the Week

As we move through these final weeks of November, remember: Christmas isn’t something we rush to — it’s something we prepare for.

So let’s begin the countdown not with stress, but with stillness.

Let’s quiet our hearts, lift our eyes, and get ready for the greatest story ever told —the moment when Heaven came to Earth and God’s love took on flesh

Nov 1, 2025

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.”

Isaiah 9:2

A Note from the Pastor

It’s hard to believe it’s already November! The leaves are falling, the air is crisp, and soon the sounds of Christmas will fill the world around us. While stores are setting out decorations and holiday ads are everywhere, this is also a powerful time for us as believers to prepare our hearts for what Christmas truly means.

This year, each week’s newsletter until Christmas will be your invitation to join me in a “Countdown to Christmas.” Over the next several weeks, let’s intentionally focus on the hope, peace, joy, and love that came into the world when Jesus was born.

Before we rush into the hustle and bustle of December, November gives us a chance to slow down and look up. It’s the perfect time to realign our hearts with Christ — to remember that Christmas isn’t just a day on the calendar, but a story that changes everything.

Let’s begin the countdown together — one week, one prayer, and one act of love at a time.

Be The One with anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


The Countdown to Christmas Starts Now

1. Begin with Gratitude

Before the tinsel and trees, let’s start with thankfulness. November reminds us that a grateful heart prepares the way for a joyful Christmas.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1

Take time this week to thank God not just for what you have, but for who He is — the Giver of every good gift.


2. Watch for His Light

Time changes tonight, so as the days grow shorter and the nights darker, we are reminded of the promise that a light has come into the world. Jesus brings light into every shadow, hope into every hardship.

“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” – John 1:9

Ask God to shine His light in your life this month — in your home, your work, and your relationships.


3. Prepare Your Heart Early

Advent doesn’t start until December, but spiritual preparation begins now. Use this first week of November to refocus your priorities and make room for Jesus.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.” – Luke 3:4

Maybe that means letting go of busyness, or carving out time each day to read Scripture. Whatever it looks like for you, start preparing now.


Church Announcements

  • Tomorrow Night Sunday November 2:
    Fireside Fellowship 5pm, Firepit, Hotdogs, Smores, and games for all ages. If you want to bring chili for the hotdogs you are more than welcome to do so.
  • Tomorrow we will be announcing something special we will be doing instead our regular Thanksgiving Giveback. It be just as special, I promise.
  • Thanksgiving Series “I Give Thanks” starts tomorrow November 2.

This series looks at the thanksgiving prayers in Paul’s epistles and uses four different points of thanks that Paul offers to God as a way to inspire gratitude and praise in our hearts as we enter the Thanksgiving and holiday season.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18


Final Thought

November is more than just a month of falling leaves and pumpkin pie — it’s the doorway to the miracle of Christmas. As we step through it, let’s keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the Light of the World.

The countdown has begun… (54 days till Christmas) and it starts right now, with a grateful heart and an eager spirit.

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.”Ecclesiastes 3:1 

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, we’re reminded that life is made up of seasons—both in nature and in our walk with God. Just as we can’t rush spring or hold back autumn, we can’t always control the seasons of our lives. But what we can do is trust the One who holds every season in His hands. 

Maybe you’re in a season of growth, where God is planting new dreams in your heart. Or maybe you’re in a season of pruning, where He’s gently removing what no longer bears fruit. Some of us might be in a season of rest, where God says, “Be still and know that I am God.” 

No matter what season you find yourself in, remember this: every season has a purpose. Every change carries a promise. And through it all, God remains faithful. 

As a church, we too are moving through seasons. We’ve seen God bring new faces, stir up new ministries, and breathe fresh life into familiar places. With each change, He is preparing us for what’s next—calling us to deeper unity, greater faith, and renewed passion for His mission. 

So let’s embrace this season together. Let’s thank God for what He’s done and trust Him for what’s to come. Because even when the seasons change… our God never does. 

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon


A Note from Pastor’s Desk:
Church family, as we enter this new season, I’m filled with gratitude for each of you. I see God at work in so many ways—through your faithfulness, your service, and your love for one another. My prayer is that we won’t just watch this season change, but that we’ll grow through it together. Let’s continue to seek God’s will and stay sensitive to what He’s doing among us. Be The One, because the best is still ahead!

Over the past few months, I have been reading and reflecting on a book titled “The Great Dechurching.” The data and stories in that book have caused me to pause and ask hard questions:

Why are so many people stepping away from the church?

What role might we be playing — and what role can we play — in inviting people back?

This edition of our newsletter is dedicated to exploring insights from the book. My hope is that these reflections will stir our hearts, sharpen our mission, and deepen our love — not just for those who are already here, but for those who once were, or who might be in the future.

Let me just make things clear here, I know and recognize that this is a book written by two men, and they have done a lot of work researching and writing for this book. I appreciate and honor their work. Within this newsletter are a lot of my own takeaways, but I also lean on others and their research as well. Please take that into consideration while reading this newsletter.

Nevertheless, there is a pandemic within the church and we have to do something about it. Are you ready?  


What is “The Great Dechurching?”

  • The authors argue that America is undergoing the largest and fastest religious shift in its history — but in reverse of revival.
  • Roughly 40 million Americans have left church attendance over the past 25 years. 
  • For the first time in decades, the number of adults who do not belong to a church outpaces those who do. 

The book’s project is not just diagnostic — it’s also strategic. It seeks to understand who is leaving, why, and what might lead some to return.


Profiles of the Dechurched

One of the strengths of The Great Dechurching is how it uses research and composite profiles to make the trends more human. The authors identify several major “types” of dechurched evangelicals. 

ProfileDescriptionKey Features / Considerations
Cultural ChristiansThe largest subsetThey often hold weak doctrinal convictions, drifted out through life rhythms more than crisis, but many are open to returning. 
Dechurched Mainstream EvangelicalsLifelong believers who stopped attendingThey retain orthodox beliefs, but lost the habit (especially after life transitions like moving). 
ExvangelicalsIntentional, sometimes permanent, departureMany cite deep hurt, trauma, or disillusionment with church culture. 
Dechurched BIPOCThose whose dechurching is shaped by race, culture, and identityTheir experience may include feeling marginalized, culturally out of place, or unheard. 
Dechurched Mainline / Catholic & ProtestantNot exclusively evangelicalThe broader shift includes those from mainline and historic churches too. 

Takeaway: The reasons people leave are varied — not all hurt, not all rebellion. Many simply drifted. And for many, an invitation or relational bridge could make all the difference. 


Why Are People Leaving? (and What’s Pulling Them Away)

The authors categorize motivations into beliefs, behavior, and belonging — the three “Bs.” 

1. Beliefs

  • Some feel the church no longer answers their doubts or questions.
  • Others see inconsistency between what the church preaches and how it acts.
  • Political polarization and misuse of authority have also driven disillusionment. 

2. Behavior

  • Life transitions (moving, jobs, marriage, kids) disrupt habits.
  • Attendance became inconvenient.
  • The “inertia effect” — once someone steps away, it becomes easier to stay away.

3. Belonging

  • Many left because they never felt loved, accepted, or known. 
  • Some say the church felt foreign or culturally distant.
  • The deepest barrier may not be theological, but relational.

One especially sobering insight: “casual dechurching” is more common than one might expect. Many people slide away, not because of a crisis of faith, but simply because life changes gradually pull them apart from the church.


Reasons for Hope

Despite the sobering trends, The Great Dechurching is not a book of despair. It offers hope and direction. Here are some of the key encouragements:

  • About 51% of dechurched evangelicals say they might return someday. 
  • Many maintain orthodox beliefs; the shift is often more about habit and relational connection than doctrinal abandonment. 
  • Belonging, more than persuasion, is often the “hinge” on which a return decision rests.
  • The authors call for relational wisdom — posture marked by quiet, calm curiosity — as a better way to engage than debate or coercion.
  • The church is invited into exile — to lose its grip on power, to serve from the margins, and to rediscover dependence on God’s grace.

Questions for Reflection for our Families

  1. Can you think of someone in your life who has drifted away from church? What might be their story?
  2. Which of the three “Bs” (believe, behave, belong) do you sense we struggle with most as a congregation?
  3. What might it look like for us to cultivate relational wisdom in how we talk and live together?
  4. How might we re-imagine our practices so that belonging is built in, especially for newcomers or those unsure?
  5. As a church, are there places where we’ve prioritized power or prestige over humility and service?

What You Can Do

How you can help:

  • Identify one person in your social circle who has drifted away, and extend a personal, low-pressure invitation — “I miss you; would you come with me this Sunday?”
  • Be intentional about friendships across generations. Invest time in people who are less familiar or less like you.
  • Pray for humility in our church — that we would listen more than lecture, serve more than command.
  • If you have gifts in hospitality, visitation, or relational ministry, Please let the Pastoral team know.

Closing Word

Let us not approach this moment with fear or despair, but with humility, hope, and resolve. If The Great Dechurching can teach anything, it is that much of what divides is healed through presencelistening, and steadfast love. The church is not a show, but a family. And every member matters. 

After seeing these reports, I’m thrilled to share that our story looks very different. We are in the midst of revival! It may not match what others define as revival, but lives are being changed, people are coming home to the church, and hearts are being awakened to a real relationship with Jesus Christ.

May God in his grace continue to draw many back, and may he continue to draw us ever more deeply into his heart of compassion and wisdom.

Don’t forget to Be The One!

Pastor Shannon

“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.”

Ezekiel 22:30

God is still looking for people who will stand in the gap—people who will intercede, serve, love, and live faithfully so that others can come to know Christ. Standing in the gap means being willing to step in where there’s a need, to pray where there’s a burden, and to fight spiritually for those who cannot fight for themselves.

This month, let’s ask ourselves: Where is God calling me to stand in the gap? It could be for your family, for a neighbor, for our church, for our nation, or for someone who doesn’t yet know Christ. 


Prayer Focus

This month, let’s focus our prayers on:

  • Families in our church who are struggling.
  • Our community leaders, that they may have wisdom.
  • The next generation, that they may encounter God’s truth.
  • Revival in our homes, our city, and our nation. 

Scripture

“And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land…” (Ezekiel 22:30)

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) 


Church News

Sermon Series: Living in the Last Days, ends this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service last Sunday: We celebrated 8 baptisms and i am continuing to receive  testimonies messages of great reports throughout the week.

Fall Fest: This might look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Thought

Standing in the gap is not always glamorous—it often happens in the secret place of prayer or in quiet acts of love. But heaven notices. Let’s be a church that stands strong, together, in the gap for others. 

Remember to Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.”

Matthew 5:6

All across history, every great move of God began with a hunger that stirred in the hearts of His people. When men and women longed for more than routine, more than religion, and cried out for the living presence of God—He responded.

We are living in a time when distractions are everywhere, but there is a mighty wave of spiritual hunger rising. People are realizing that nothing in this world can satisfy the soul like Jesus. This hunger is not a weakness—it is an invitation to be filled.

Are you hungry for a deeper move of God in your life, your family, and our church? Let’s position ourselves in prayer, worship, and obedience so that when the wave of His Spirit comes, we are ready to be swept up in His power. 


Devotional Thought

Hunger is a gift. It proves you were made for more than what this world offers. God promises to fill those who seek Him with all their heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

Revival is never accidental—it comes when God’s people are desperate for His presence. Just like waves in the ocean, God’s Spirit moves in power and in timing. Hunger creates the conditions for the wave to rise.  

How Do We Stir Our Hunger?

Pray daily – Not just for needs, but for His presence.

Fast – Lay something down to show God your desire for Him above all else.

Worship – Even when you don’t “feel it,” worship draws His Spirit close.

Expect – Believe that God is ready to move here and now. 


Church News

Our Wednesday Nights are exploding!

The last several midweek services have been nothing short of Amazing! If you haven’t attended you are missing out. We have been averaging close to 150 each week; 80-100 kids and youth. I want to encourage you to bring your kids, your neighbors kids and yourself to come experience an HFA midweek. You will not be disappointed.

Sermon Series. The current series: Living in the Last Days continues this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service this coming Sunday AM. If you want to be baptized, please let Pastor Shannon know. Bring a change of clothes (nothing white) and a towel.

Fall Fest. This night may look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Encouragement

The world is hungry for entertainment, success, and pleasure — but the church must be hungry for the living God. When a body of believers hungers together, God pours out His Spirit in ways that change communities, families, and nations.

Let’s Be that church. Let’s Be that people. Let’s ride the mighty wave of hunger into a fresh move of God! 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

HFA Weekly Newsletter
1.25.2026
There is something sacred about the first snowfall.The world slows down. Noise is softened. Rough edges are covered. What was once ordinary suddenly becomes beautiful. Streets, fields, rooftops—everything looks new again beneath a blanket of white.

Snow has a way of reminding us that God still speaks in quiet ways.

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” — Isaiah 1:18

A Picture of Grace

Snow does not argue with the ground beneath it. It simply falls—freely, gently, generously. In the same way, God’s grace is not earned; it is given. It covers what is broken, worn, and stained, and declares it clean. Winter shows us that God is never absent, even when things seem still or cold. Beneath the snow, life is being protected, prepared, and preserved for what is to come.

God at Work in the Stillness

Snow invites us to pause. To breathe. To listen. To notice.

In Scripture, God often does His deepest work in quiet seasons—when hearts are still enough to hear Him. Snowy days remind us that rest is holy and waiting is not wasted.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10

A Call to Reflect

As you look out at the white landscape today, let it stir your heart: Where might God be offering you a fresh start? What burdens is He inviting you to lay down? How can you reflect His purity, peace, and grace to others?

A Prayer for the Season

Lord, thank You for the beauty You paint across your creation. As the world grows quiet after the snow has feallen, help us to hear Your voice more clearly. Cover our hearts with Your grace. Renew our spirits. Teach us to trust You in every season. Amen.


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

As we move further into this new year, I am struck by the beauty of the season God has placed us in. It is a season of expectation. To live with expectation is not merely to wait for time to pass; it is to wait with a “stretched-out neck,” eagerly looking for where God is already moving.

Whether you are in a mountaintop moment or a valley of testing, remember that our God is a promise-keeper. I want to personally challenge each of you to remain steadfast in your daily Bible reading. The Word of God is not just a book of history; it is “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12).

When we neglect the Scriptures, we try to fight spiritual battles on an empty stomach. I encourage you to set aside even fifteen minutes this week to sit with the Word. Let it anchor your soul and sharpen your vision for what He is doing in your life.

The world around us can feel turbulent, but our foundation is unshakable. To stay strong in faith means to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of it all. Strength doesn’t always look like a loud victory; sometimes, it is the quiet resolve to trust God one more day. If you feel weary, lean into the grace that is sufficient for you. You are not walking this path alone.

Finally, I am so excited about our upcoming Marriage Weekend on February 7th (9-noon) and 8th. Marriage is one of the most profound mirrors of Christ’s love for the Church, yet it requires intentional cultivation.

Whether you have been married for five months or fifty years, we invite you to join us for this special time of refreshment, laughter, and biblical teaching. Let’s make the choice to invest in our homes so that they may be beacons of light in our community.

Expect great things from God this week.  We are praying for you, and we can’t wait to see how He moves in our midst.

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

The “Story of Redemption” Annual Plan

Quarter 1: Foundations & The Covenant

January: The Beginnings. Genesis and Job. (See the creation of the world and the oldest questions of human suffering).

February: Deliverance. Exodus and Leviticus. (The escape from Egypt and the blueprint for holiness).

March: The Wilderness. Numbers and Deuteronomy. (Lessons on faithfulness and preparing to enter the promised land).


Quarter 2: Kingdoms & Wisdom

April: Possession & Judges. Joshua, Judges, Ruth. (The struggle for the land and the need for a King).

May: The United Kingdom. 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 Chronicles. (The lives of Saul, David, and Solomon).

June: Heart & Soul. Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon. (Taking a break from history to focus on prayer and wisdom).


Quarter 3: Exile & The Prophets

July: The Divided Kingdom. 1 & 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles. (The rise and fall of Israel and Judah).

August: Major Prophets. Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations. (Warnings of judgment and promises of a future Savior).

September: Minor Prophets & Return. Ezekiel, Daniel, and the “Book of the Twelve” (Hosea–Malachi).


Quarter 4: The Messiah & The Church

October: The Gospels. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. (The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus).

November: The Early Church. Acts, Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians. (The spread of the Gospel and the core of Christian doctrine).

December: The Epistles & Revelation. Ephesians through Jude, and Revelation. (Instructions for living and the ultimate hope of Christ’s return).


3 Tips for “Meaningful” Reading

1. The “One Verse” Rule: Don’t just read to check a box. Every day, pick one verse that stood out and write it down or meditate on it during your commute/lunch.

2. Use a “Bridge” Prayer: Before you open the book, pray: “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law” (Psalm 119:18).

3. Don’t Panic if You Fall Behind: If you miss three days, don’t try to read 12 chapters in one sitting. Just start where you are today. The goal is transformation, not just completion.

Week 6 – “The Light Breaks Through”

Only 19 Days Until Christmas!

“The true Light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” — John 1:9


A Note from the Pastor

Dear HFA Family,

We’ve officially stepped into December — the month where excitement rises, calendars fill up, and hearts begin to lean in toward the miracle of Christmas. And now, with only 19 days left, we continue our countdown with anticipation and wonder.

For centuries, the world waited in darkness for the promised Messiah. But the moment Jesus entered the world, light broke through.
Not the soft glow of a candle, but a light strong enough to shatter sin, silence fear, and bring hope to the broken.

As we move deeper into this Advent season, let’s look for the Light of Christ breaking through in our own lives — in our homes, in our church, in our hearts.

Be The One with hope and joy,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Focus: “The Light Breaks Through”

Advent reminds us that God doesn’t wait for perfect conditions to work — He breaks into the darkness right where we are.

Three Truths This Week:

1. Jesus Brings Light Into Our Dark Places.

Whether it’s fear, worry, or weariness, the light of Christ reaches places nothing else can.
Christmas isn’t just a celebration — it’s an invasion of hope.

2. Light Always Wins Over Darkness.

John 1:5 says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
Darkness can resist, but it cannot defeat Jesus.

3. We Are Called to Carry His Light.

As Christmas approaches, your smile, your words, your kindness may be the light someone desperately needs.
This season isn’t about shining on our own, but reflecting His glory.


Scripture Focus This Week

  • John 1:1–14
  • Isaiah 60:1 – “Arise, shine, for your light has come…”
  • Matthew 5:14–16 – “You are the light of the world…”

Spend a few minutes this week sitting in quiet — maybe by the glow of your Christmas tree — and thank Jesus for being the Light that never dims.


Church Announcements:

  • Series Continues – “Breaking the Silence”
  • December 14 will be our kids church Christmas program.

Reflection for the Week

The world may feel dark, busy, or heavy —
but the message of Christmas is simple and unchanging:

The Light has come.
The Light is here.
The Light is breaking through.

As we count down the final 19 days, keep your eyes open.
You’ll see the light of Christ in places you never expected.

I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

— Luke 2:10 


A Note from the Pastor

As the days grow shorter and Thanksgiving draws near, we find ourselves standing on the edge of one of the most joyful seasons of the year. The Christmas lights are beginning to appear, and soon we’ll hear carols that remind us of the night heaven touched earth.

But before the celebration begins, we find ourselves in a season of waiting — waiting for gatherings, waiting for Christmas morning, waiting for promises fulfilled. Waiting isn’t always easy. Yet in God’s kingdom, waiting is never wasted.

It’s in the waiting that our faith grows and our hearts learn to trust. That’s why this week’s focus in our Countdown to Christmas is Joy in the Waiting. Because even when the answer hasn’t come, and the prayer isn’t yet fulfilled, we can still rejoice — not because everything is perfect, but because God is present.

Be The One with joy and anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


Countdown Thought: Joy in the Waiting

When the angel appeared to the shepherds, the message wasn’t “Be happy because life is easy.”
It was “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

True joy doesn’t come from circumstances — it comes from Christ. And sometimes, it’s in the waiting that we discover that most deeply.

Here’s how we can practice joy this week:

Choose Joy Daily.
Joy isn’t a mood — it’s a mindset. Wake up and thank God for one thing before anything else

Stay Prayerful in the Waiting.
Philippians 4:6–7 reminds us to bring everything to God in prayer. When we pray with thanksgiving, peace follows.

Spread Joy to Others.
Send a card, make a call, or serve someone in need. When we share joy, it multiplies. Even when life feels uncertain, we can still say, “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”  

Scripture Focus:

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” — Romans 15:13

Take time this week to reflect on the ways God has shown His faithfulness in your past. Joy grows when we remember that the same God who was faithful before will be faithful again.


Church Announcements

Thanksgiving Sunday – November 23th:
Join us as we gather for a special time of worship and gratitude. It’s the perfect way to begin the Advent season with thankful hearts.

Advent Series Begins November 30th:
Invite your friends and family to our Christmas series: Breaking The Silence.” This Christmas series examines Jesus’ arrival after the “four hundred years of silence.” You will be encouraged to worship God for his faithfulness and trust in Jesus’ assured return.

There will be no Sunday Night services during the month of December. Take this time and spend it with your family and friends celebrating our King!

Don’t forget to pick up your awesome HFA apparel if you ordered it. You must pay for it before receiving it.


Reflection for the Week

Joy is not the absence of hardship — it’s the presence of Jesus.
As we count down to Christmas, let’s not rush past the waiting. Let’s rejoice in it.

Because even in the in-between moments, God is working, hearts are softening, and His promise is still true:

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…” (Isaiah 9:6)

So, keep your eyes lifted and your heart joyful —
Christmas is coming, and so is the Light of the World.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.”

— Luke 3:4

A Note from the Pastor

Can you believe we’re already in the middle of November? Thanksgiving is almost here, and right behind it — Christmas! Decorations are going up, plans are being made, and before we know it, the calendar will turn to December.

But before the rush of the season sweeps us away, let’s pause for a moment. The second week of November is a perfect time to begin preparing our hearts for what Christmas is really about — not the presents, but His presence.

As John the Baptist once said, “Prepare the way for the Lord.” That’s our calling too — to make room for Jesus in our lives, homes, and hearts.

So as we continue our Countdown to Christmas, let’s not just count the days — let’s make the days count.

Be The One with love and anticipation,

Pastor Shannon  


Countdown Thought: Preparing the Way

When John the Baptist began preaching, he wasn’t just talking about clearing a road; he was talking about clearing the heart. Our world is noisy, busy, and full of distractions — and it’s easy to let that noise crowd out the quiet joy of Christ. Preparing for Christmas isn’t about perfect decorations or finding the best gifts. It’s about making space for Jesus in our everyday lives.

Here’s how we can begin:

Slow down before the season speeds up.
Take a few moments each day for prayer and Scripture. Even five minutes can re-center your heart.
Notice God’s blessings now.
Before we rush into Christmas lists, let’s make a gratitude list. What has God done in your life this year?
Reach out in love.
Maybe “preparing the way” means forgiving someone, encouraging a friend, or serving a neighbor in need.

When we do these things, we’re not just counting down to Christmas — we’re inviting Christ to come closer. 


Scripture Assignment

Take a few moments this week to read Luke 1–2. Ask God to show you something new about the miracle of Jesus’ coming.


Reflection for the Week

As we move through these final weeks of November, remember: Christmas isn’t something we rush to — it’s something we prepare for.

So let’s begin the countdown not with stress, but with stillness.

Let’s quiet our hearts, lift our eyes, and get ready for the greatest story ever told —the moment when Heaven came to Earth and God’s love took on flesh

Nov 1, 2025

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.”

Isaiah 9:2

A Note from the Pastor

It’s hard to believe it’s already November! The leaves are falling, the air is crisp, and soon the sounds of Christmas will fill the world around us. While stores are setting out decorations and holiday ads are everywhere, this is also a powerful time for us as believers to prepare our hearts for what Christmas truly means.

This year, each week’s newsletter until Christmas will be your invitation to join me in a “Countdown to Christmas.” Over the next several weeks, let’s intentionally focus on the hope, peace, joy, and love that came into the world when Jesus was born.

Before we rush into the hustle and bustle of December, November gives us a chance to slow down and look up. It’s the perfect time to realign our hearts with Christ — to remember that Christmas isn’t just a day on the calendar, but a story that changes everything.

Let’s begin the countdown together — one week, one prayer, and one act of love at a time.

Be The One with anticipation,
Pastor Shannon


The Countdown to Christmas Starts Now

1. Begin with Gratitude

Before the tinsel and trees, let’s start with thankfulness. November reminds us that a grateful heart prepares the way for a joyful Christmas.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1

Take time this week to thank God not just for what you have, but for who He is — the Giver of every good gift.


2. Watch for His Light

Time changes tonight, so as the days grow shorter and the nights darker, we are reminded of the promise that a light has come into the world. Jesus brings light into every shadow, hope into every hardship.

“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” – John 1:9

Ask God to shine His light in your life this month — in your home, your work, and your relationships.


3. Prepare Your Heart Early

Advent doesn’t start until December, but spiritual preparation begins now. Use this first week of November to refocus your priorities and make room for Jesus.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.” – Luke 3:4

Maybe that means letting go of busyness, or carving out time each day to read Scripture. Whatever it looks like for you, start preparing now.


Church Announcements

  • Tomorrow Night Sunday November 2:
    Fireside Fellowship 5pm, Firepit, Hotdogs, Smores, and games for all ages. If you want to bring chili for the hotdogs you are more than welcome to do so.
  • Tomorrow we will be announcing something special we will be doing instead our regular Thanksgiving Giveback. It be just as special, I promise.
  • Thanksgiving Series “I Give Thanks” starts tomorrow November 2.

This series looks at the thanksgiving prayers in Paul’s epistles and uses four different points of thanks that Paul offers to God as a way to inspire gratitude and praise in our hearts as we enter the Thanksgiving and holiday season.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18


Final Thought

November is more than just a month of falling leaves and pumpkin pie — it’s the doorway to the miracle of Christmas. As we step through it, let’s keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the Light of the World.

The countdown has begun… (54 days till Christmas) and it starts right now, with a grateful heart and an eager spirit.

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.”Ecclesiastes 3:1 

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, we’re reminded that life is made up of seasons—both in nature and in our walk with God. Just as we can’t rush spring or hold back autumn, we can’t always control the seasons of our lives. But what we can do is trust the One who holds every season in His hands. 

Maybe you’re in a season of growth, where God is planting new dreams in your heart. Or maybe you’re in a season of pruning, where He’s gently removing what no longer bears fruit. Some of us might be in a season of rest, where God says, “Be still and know that I am God.” 

No matter what season you find yourself in, remember this: every season has a purpose. Every change carries a promise. And through it all, God remains faithful. 

As a church, we too are moving through seasons. We’ve seen God bring new faces, stir up new ministries, and breathe fresh life into familiar places. With each change, He is preparing us for what’s next—calling us to deeper unity, greater faith, and renewed passion for His mission. 

So let’s embrace this season together. Let’s thank God for what He’s done and trust Him for what’s to come. Because even when the seasons change… our God never does. 

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon


A Note from Pastor’s Desk:
Church family, as we enter this new season, I’m filled with gratitude for each of you. I see God at work in so many ways—through your faithfulness, your service, and your love for one another. My prayer is that we won’t just watch this season change, but that we’ll grow through it together. Let’s continue to seek God’s will and stay sensitive to what He’s doing among us. Be The One, because the best is still ahead!

Over the past few months, I have been reading and reflecting on a book titled “The Great Dechurching.” The data and stories in that book have caused me to pause and ask hard questions:

Why are so many people stepping away from the church?

What role might we be playing — and what role can we play — in inviting people back?

This edition of our newsletter is dedicated to exploring insights from the book. My hope is that these reflections will stir our hearts, sharpen our mission, and deepen our love — not just for those who are already here, but for those who once were, or who might be in the future.

Let me just make things clear here, I know and recognize that this is a book written by two men, and they have done a lot of work researching and writing for this book. I appreciate and honor their work. Within this newsletter are a lot of my own takeaways, but I also lean on others and their research as well. Please take that into consideration while reading this newsletter.

Nevertheless, there is a pandemic within the church and we have to do something about it. Are you ready?  


What is “The Great Dechurching?”

  • The authors argue that America is undergoing the largest and fastest religious shift in its history — but in reverse of revival.
  • Roughly 40 million Americans have left church attendance over the past 25 years. 
  • For the first time in decades, the number of adults who do not belong to a church outpaces those who do. 

The book’s project is not just diagnostic — it’s also strategic. It seeks to understand who is leaving, why, and what might lead some to return.


Profiles of the Dechurched

One of the strengths of The Great Dechurching is how it uses research and composite profiles to make the trends more human. The authors identify several major “types” of dechurched evangelicals. 

ProfileDescriptionKey Features / Considerations
Cultural ChristiansThe largest subsetThey often hold weak doctrinal convictions, drifted out through life rhythms more than crisis, but many are open to returning. 
Dechurched Mainstream EvangelicalsLifelong believers who stopped attendingThey retain orthodox beliefs, but lost the habit (especially after life transitions like moving). 
ExvangelicalsIntentional, sometimes permanent, departureMany cite deep hurt, trauma, or disillusionment with church culture. 
Dechurched BIPOCThose whose dechurching is shaped by race, culture, and identityTheir experience may include feeling marginalized, culturally out of place, or unheard. 
Dechurched Mainline / Catholic & ProtestantNot exclusively evangelicalThe broader shift includes those from mainline and historic churches too. 

Takeaway: The reasons people leave are varied — not all hurt, not all rebellion. Many simply drifted. And for many, an invitation or relational bridge could make all the difference. 


Why Are People Leaving? (and What’s Pulling Them Away)

The authors categorize motivations into beliefs, behavior, and belonging — the three “Bs.” 

1. Beliefs

  • Some feel the church no longer answers their doubts or questions.
  • Others see inconsistency between what the church preaches and how it acts.
  • Political polarization and misuse of authority have also driven disillusionment. 

2. Behavior

  • Life transitions (moving, jobs, marriage, kids) disrupt habits.
  • Attendance became inconvenient.
  • The “inertia effect” — once someone steps away, it becomes easier to stay away.

3. Belonging

  • Many left because they never felt loved, accepted, or known. 
  • Some say the church felt foreign or culturally distant.
  • The deepest barrier may not be theological, but relational.

One especially sobering insight: “casual dechurching” is more common than one might expect. Many people slide away, not because of a crisis of faith, but simply because life changes gradually pull them apart from the church.


Reasons for Hope

Despite the sobering trends, The Great Dechurching is not a book of despair. It offers hope and direction. Here are some of the key encouragements:

  • About 51% of dechurched evangelicals say they might return someday. 
  • Many maintain orthodox beliefs; the shift is often more about habit and relational connection than doctrinal abandonment. 
  • Belonging, more than persuasion, is often the “hinge” on which a return decision rests.
  • The authors call for relational wisdom — posture marked by quiet, calm curiosity — as a better way to engage than debate or coercion.
  • The church is invited into exile — to lose its grip on power, to serve from the margins, and to rediscover dependence on God’s grace.

Questions for Reflection for our Families

  1. Can you think of someone in your life who has drifted away from church? What might be their story?
  2. Which of the three “Bs” (believe, behave, belong) do you sense we struggle with most as a congregation?
  3. What might it look like for us to cultivate relational wisdom in how we talk and live together?
  4. How might we re-imagine our practices so that belonging is built in, especially for newcomers or those unsure?
  5. As a church, are there places where we’ve prioritized power or prestige over humility and service?

What You Can Do

How you can help:

  • Identify one person in your social circle who has drifted away, and extend a personal, low-pressure invitation — “I miss you; would you come with me this Sunday?”
  • Be intentional about friendships across generations. Invest time in people who are less familiar or less like you.
  • Pray for humility in our church — that we would listen more than lecture, serve more than command.
  • If you have gifts in hospitality, visitation, or relational ministry, Please let the Pastoral team know.

Closing Word

Let us not approach this moment with fear or despair, but with humility, hope, and resolve. If The Great Dechurching can teach anything, it is that much of what divides is healed through presencelistening, and steadfast love. The church is not a show, but a family. And every member matters. 

After seeing these reports, I’m thrilled to share that our story looks very different. We are in the midst of revival! It may not match what others define as revival, but lives are being changed, people are coming home to the church, and hearts are being awakened to a real relationship with Jesus Christ.

May God in his grace continue to draw many back, and may he continue to draw us ever more deeply into his heart of compassion and wisdom.

Don’t forget to Be The One!

Pastor Shannon

“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.”

Ezekiel 22:30

God is still looking for people who will stand in the gap—people who will intercede, serve, love, and live faithfully so that others can come to know Christ. Standing in the gap means being willing to step in where there’s a need, to pray where there’s a burden, and to fight spiritually for those who cannot fight for themselves.

This month, let’s ask ourselves: Where is God calling me to stand in the gap? It could be for your family, for a neighbor, for our church, for our nation, or for someone who doesn’t yet know Christ. 


Prayer Focus

This month, let’s focus our prayers on:

  • Families in our church who are struggling.
  • Our community leaders, that they may have wisdom.
  • The next generation, that they may encounter God’s truth.
  • Revival in our homes, our city, and our nation. 

Scripture

“And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land…” (Ezekiel 22:30)

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) 


Church News

Sermon Series: Living in the Last Days, ends this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service last Sunday: We celebrated 8 baptisms and i am continuing to receive  testimonies messages of great reports throughout the week.

Fall Fest: This might look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Thought

Standing in the gap is not always glamorous—it often happens in the secret place of prayer or in quiet acts of love. But heaven notices. Let’s be a church that stands strong, together, in the gap for others. 

Remember to Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.”

Matthew 5:6

All across history, every great move of God began with a hunger that stirred in the hearts of His people. When men and women longed for more than routine, more than religion, and cried out for the living presence of God—He responded.

We are living in a time when distractions are everywhere, but there is a mighty wave of spiritual hunger rising. People are realizing that nothing in this world can satisfy the soul like Jesus. This hunger is not a weakness—it is an invitation to be filled.

Are you hungry for a deeper move of God in your life, your family, and our church? Let’s position ourselves in prayer, worship, and obedience so that when the wave of His Spirit comes, we are ready to be swept up in His power. 


Devotional Thought

Hunger is a gift. It proves you were made for more than what this world offers. God promises to fill those who seek Him with all their heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

Revival is never accidental—it comes when God’s people are desperate for His presence. Just like waves in the ocean, God’s Spirit moves in power and in timing. Hunger creates the conditions for the wave to rise.  

How Do We Stir Our Hunger?

Pray daily – Not just for needs, but for His presence.

Fast – Lay something down to show God your desire for Him above all else.

Worship – Even when you don’t “feel it,” worship draws His Spirit close.

Expect – Believe that God is ready to move here and now. 


Church News

Our Wednesday Nights are exploding!

The last several midweek services have been nothing short of Amazing! If you haven’t attended you are missing out. We have been averaging close to 150 each week; 80-100 kids and youth. I want to encourage you to bring your kids, your neighbors kids and yourself to come experience an HFA midweek. You will not be disappointed.

Sermon Series. The current series: Living in the Last Days continues this Sunday. Don’t miss it!

Baptism Service this coming Sunday AM. If you want to be baptized, please let Pastor Shannon know. Bring a change of clothes (nothing white) and a towel.

Fall Fest. This night may look different this year. More information to come.   


Closing Encouragement

The world is hungry for entertainment, success, and pleasure — but the church must be hungry for the living God. When a body of believers hungers together, God pours out His Spirit in ways that change communities, families, and nations.

Let’s Be that church. Let’s Be that people. Let’s ride the mighty wave of hunger into a fresh move of God! 

Be The One,

Pastor Shannon

Services

Sunday School
9:30 AM
Sunday Worship
10:30 AM
Sunday Evening
5 PM
Wednesday Meal
6:30 PM
Wednesday (Kids)
7 PM
Wednesday (Adults)
7 PM