Greetings from Story Church and Twice Blessed Free Store
by Pastor Lisa Thomas of Story Church and Director of TBFS
Today I am writing to you from Delaware, Ohio, on the campus of MTSO, the Methodist Theological School in Ohio.
In just a few short hours, I will be boarding a plane bound for South Africa as I begin a cultural immersion experience.
I am feeling excited, grateful, and deeply humbled. As many of you know, our Story Church campus is beautifully diverse. Every week, we are blessed to welcome people from many different countries, cultures, languages, and life experiences. Many of our shoppers, neighbors, and members of our worshiping community have roots in Africa, including folks from the Congo. Their presence has enriched our ministry in so many ways.
That is part of why this trip means so much to me. I am looking forward to listening, learning, and experiencing a culture different from my own. My prayer is that this time in South Africa will give me fresh insight, deeper compassion, and a broader perspective as we continue to build relationships across cultures at Story Church and Twice Blessed Free Store. I want to come home with a better understanding of how we can love, serve, and walk alongside our African brothers and sisters with even more care and intentionality.
Because of our beautiful diversity, and because of Rocky River UMC’s continued dedication to urban ministry, we were honored to receive the very first Fresh Starts Multiplier Award. What a gift, and what an encouragement! This award is a reflection of so many faithful people who give their time, energy, prayers, donations, leadership, and love to help make Story Church and Twice Blessed Free Store what they are.
So to every volunteer, donor, prayer warrior, shopper, worshiper, leader, partner, and friend: thank you. Thank you for helping create a loving and vibrant community where people can find hope, belonging, dignity, and welcome.
And speaking of hope and belonging, we would love for you to join us for our 3rd Annual Story Church Block Party on Saturday, August 15, from 12:30pm to 3:30 pm.
There will be music, food, a bounce house for the kids, community connections, and plenty of fun. It is always such a fun day in the neighborhood, and we would love to see you there. Bring your family, invite a friend, and come celebrate with us.
Story Church continues to be a place where God is writing beautiful stories of grace, connection, and new beginnings. Thank you for being part of that story.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Lisa Thomas
We’re already excited for our next big gathering: our Annual Community Block Party on Saturday, August 15, from 12:30 - 3:30 PM.
Mark your calendars because we would love for you to be part of it!
The addition of our Praise Team has added such a beautiful dimension to our services. Frank Thomas, our Worship Leader, along with Toni Reno, have created something truly special.
Friends, God is moving in this place! And it is such a privilege to be part of it all together.
With gratitude and hope,
Pastor Lisa Thomas
LThomas@rrumc.org