DEAR MENLO CHURCH,

I’ve been thinking about friends recently. I mean real friends. You know, the ones who ask how you are “really doing” and who you can call at 3am. People who love you no matter what and will also tell you the truth. The longer I live the deeper my gratitude grows for the incredible gift of friendship. Yet, if I am honest, too often it slips down the priority list. I don’t make the time, I get distracted, or I just forget, and my relationships suffer.

“Dozens of studies have shown that people who have satisfying relationships with family, friends, and their community are happier, have fewer health problems, and live longer. Conversely, a relative lack of social ties is associated with depression and later-life cognitive decline, as well as increased mortality.”
- Harvard Health

This should not be surprising. We were created for community by a God that is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Humans started off as a pair because it was not good for them to be alone. We need each other and God is in our midst when we are together.

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
- Hebrews 10:24 & 25

One of the roles of the church is to gather God’s people. We come together as brothers and sisters and friends to worship, to grow, and to learn how to love as Christ loved. This fall we have some great ways for you to gather together. You can get into a life group, come to the fall retreat, join Starting Point, or enroll in a lab. And I’m sure you have people in your life who would love an invite—so bring someone with you and double the blessing. Who knows, you may make a new friend and live to be 100.

Scott Palmbush
Acting Head of Staff

P.S. Our new Elders have officially been elected! If you haven't gotten to know them yet, take a few minutes and read their bios.

MAKE MENLO CHURCH YOUR CHURCH
Starting Point begins this week– it’s not too late to sign up. Take four fun weeks to find your place in the Menlo Church community! No matter how long you’ve been here, Starting Point will help you connect with others, get involved, and be encouraged on your faith journey. DETAILS

ADULTS AND STUDENTS: ENJOY TWO GETAWAYS!
Weekend of Oct. 14-16, Mount Hermon | These two events—an adult spiritual retreat and a camp for students—will give everyone the chance to slow down and take intentional steps to follow Jesus. Join the refreshing mountain escape as we worship, laugh, share meals, and make friends. REGISTER

MARK YOUR CALENDAR: ATTEND A LAB!
Starts mid-October | Join a Menlo Lab to build relationships while learning! Gather in small groups to tackle a wide range of topics, including parenting, finances, marriage, justice, and more in these five-to-six week fun, interactive groups. LEARN MORE

DISCOVER NEW SERMON SERIES RESOURCES
Go deeper with the sermon series with these new informative sermon study guides and resources! Check back each week for the sermon video, a Life Group discussion guide, and a Bible study worksheet. GET RESOURCES