This Week at New Spirit — May 10, 2026
See how the spirit is moving in the New Spirit Lutheran Church weekly update for the week of May 10, 2026.
Pastor’s Reflection
This week, I have been thinking a lot about authenticity and intentionality. Over the last couple of weeks I have been working on my office space, yes, even after nearly four years. I realized at some point that I was trying to fit into what a pastor’s office is “supposed” to look like instead of allowing it to reflect who I actually am. So now, right next to my Paul Heyman-inspired coffee station, you will also find prayer aids that I reach for when praying for you or discerning decisions. The space feels more alive because it is authentic.
I think the same thing is true for the church. Study after study shows that younger generations are not looking for polished perfection nearly as much as they are looking for something real: authentic community, authentic faith, and authentic people. In fact, recent Barna research has found growing engagement among younger adults in churches where people experience genuine connection and authenticity. At a time when many churches are struggling, I believe that is part of why New Spirit continues to grow and move forward. We are becoming more intentional about who we are, what we value, and how we live out the Gospel together. New Spirit, we not trying to become a copy of someone else’s church. We are striving to faithfully become the community God is calling us to be.
From Sunday’s Message
“We could fill this room up with people just sitting here in these pews… and if they were to leave and not do anything, what good is it?”
Sermon Blog: From “Thoughts and Prayers” to “Prayer and Action”
This Sunday at New Spirit
Scripture: Romans 8:22-30 and John 17:1-11
Theme: God prays with and for you
Worship Time: Sunday at 10:00 AM
Life at New Spirit
Did you know the New Spirit library is available to use outside of Sunday mornings and committee meetings? When we updated the furniture, one of our goals was to create a welcoming space that people could use throughout the week. Whether you need a quiet place for remote work, studying, reading, meetings, or simply a change of scenery, the library is here for you during the church office hours. This week, one member of the congregation spent time working remotely from the library. We love seeing the building used not just for worship, but as a space that supports real life and community throughout the week.
Photo description: A congregation member uses the New Spirit Lutheran Church library as a remote workspace, sitting at a large table surrounded by bookshelves and comfortable seating.
Upcoming Opportunities
Prayer Requests
Based on the ELCA Prayer Ventures prayer prompts.
May 13
God of compassion, we pray for ministries and programs that support families, children, and those experiencing homelessness. Strengthen those who teach, care, shelter, and encourage others, and help every family grow in faith, hope, and love together.
Repeat: God of compassion, strengthen and shelter your people.
May 14 — Ascension of Our Lord
Risen and ascended Christ, deepen our faith and help us better understand the gift of your love, forgiveness, and salvation. Through your Spirit, teach us how to live together in grace, mercy, and community.
Repeat: Ascended Christ, lead us in faith and community.
May 15
Holy Spirit, guide the leaders and voting members gathering for synod assemblies across our church. Give them wisdom, courage, and compassion as they discern the future of the church, encourage one another, and continue the work of proclaiming the Gospel, serving neighbors, and working for justice and peace.
Repeat: Holy Spirit, guide and strengthen your church.
May 16
God of wisdom, be with the leaders and voting members gathering for the Northern Great Lakes Synod assembly. Inspire their conversations, decisions, and shared ministry so that your church may faithfully serve the world in Christ’s name.
Repeat: God of wisdom, guide your church in mission.
May 17
Lord of the Church, bless the Southeastern Iowa Synod assembly and all who gather for discernment and leadership. Renew their energy for ministry and unite them in proclaiming your love through word and action.
Repeat: Lord of the Church, renew and unite us.
May 18
God of unity, we give thanks for our siblings in Christ across congregations, communities, and nations. Remind us that through baptism we are connected to one another and called to serve together in your world.
Repeat: God of unity, make us one in Christ.
May 19
Creator God, we give thanks for scientists, teachers, researchers, and church leaders who explore the wonders of your creation. Continue to guide the work of faith, science, and technology so that knowledge may be used with wisdom, humility, and care for our neighbors.
Repeat: Creator God, guide us in wisdom and wonder.
To be part of the email Prayer Chain, contact Nancy in the office. The email Prayer Chain is where specific individual prayer requests are distributed.
