The Cactus & The Cross Blog

As we approach the start of a new year, we also come to an important moment in the life of our church community: our Annual Congregational Meeting . This year’s meeting will take place on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 9:45 am,  in the Sanctuary  and Online . This gathering is more than a procedural necessity—it’s an opportunity for all of us to participate in the shared ministry of St. John’s, discern our path forward, and celebrate the work God is doing among us. What to Expec

There's something truly special about gathering during the Advent season—cozy kitchens, the aroma of freshly baked cookies, and the joy of giving to others. This year, we're thrilled to continue one of St. John’s most beloved traditions, and we hope you will join us! On Saturday, December 13 at 10:30 am, in the Chapel, the Caring Committee and the women of St. John’s will host our annual Cookie Packing for the Home Bound . This simple act of kindness brings immense joy to t

There’s something special about gathering together during the Advent season—warm kitchens, the scent of fresh-baked cookies, and the joy of giving to others. This year, we’re excited to continue one of St. John’s most cherished traditions, and we hope you  will be part of it! On Saturday, December 13 at 10:30 am in the Chapel,  the Caring Committee and the women of St. John’s will host our annual Cookie Packing for the Home Bound . It’s a simple act of kindness that brings im

Looking for a meaningful way to serve with compassion? Join our Shower Ministry this Friday, December 5, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm at St. John’s Courtyard. This ministry does more than just offer hot showers—it aims to restore dignity, spread kindness, and show God’s love to our unhoused neighbors. We provide hygiene supplies, clean towels, and, most importantly, a warm, welcoming community. 👐 How You Can Make a Difference: Your help is crucial, regardless of whether you are

Are you seeking a practical way to serve with compassion? Participate in our Shower Ministry this Friday, November 21, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm at St. John’s Courtyard. This ministry goes beyond providing hot showers—it focuses on restoring dignity, spreading kindness, and demonstrating God’s love to our unhoused neighbors. We offer hygiene supplies, clean towels, and, most importantly, a warm, welcoming community. 👐 How You Can Make a Difference: Your assistance is vital,

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, signaling one of the busiest and most meaningful times of the year for our Food Pantry! This season, we aim to support 125 families with Thanksgiving meals and a grocery gift card, allowing them to come together and enjoy a special meal. We encourage you to join this effort by donating $15 or $20 gift cards to local grocery stores. Your generosity will enable families to purchase the essentials they need to celebrate Thanksgiving with

Our ushers play an essential role in helping every service run smoothly and making everyone who walks through our doors feel welcome. To stay connected and prepared for the busy season ahead, we’re inviting all ushers  to attend an important meeting on Saturday, November 15, at 9:00 am . During this meeting, we’ll review upcoming events, share important updates, and discuss ways to continue serving our congregation with excellence and care . It’s also a great opportunity to c

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and you know what that means for our Food Pantry—it’s one of our busiest and most meaningful times of the year! This season, we’re hoping to bless 125 families  with Thanksgiving food and a grocery gift card, so they can gather around the table and enjoy a special meal together. We invite you to be part of this effort by donating $15 or $20 gift cards  to local grocery stores. Your generosity will help families purchase the items they

As we anticipate the upcoming year, we are encouraged to contemplate how God invites us to utilize our time, talent, and treasure for His kingdom's work. Pledge Weekend is scheduled for November 8–9 , providing a unique chance for each of us to thoughtfully reflect on our dedication to the ministry and mission of our church in 2026 . Pray. Listen. Respond. We encourage each member to dedicate time in the upcoming weeks to pray and seek God's guidance on how you can contri

Looking for a hands-on opportunity to serve with compassion? Join our bi-weekly Shower Ministry this Friday, October 24, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm at St. John’s Courtyard. This ministry is more than just offering hot showers—it’s about restoring dignity, sharing kindness, and showing God’s love to our unhoused neighbors. We provide hygiene supplies, clean towels, and most importantly, a warm, welcoming community. 👐 How You Can Make a Difference: Your help is crucial, whether