Ministry in the Parking Lot…
Salt and Light Newsletter
March 25, 2026
_________________________________________________________
Pastor’s Thoughts:
Today, I’ve been out at the thrift store for our first donation day… and it’s been something special.
Car after car has been pulling into the drop-off area. People unloading pieces of their lives. Conversations happening in the middle of a parking lot on a beautiful spring day.
And right there… in the middle of it all… we’ve been praying with people.
Not inside a sanctuary.
Not during a scheduled service.
But out back… between carloads and boxes.
And I couldn’t help but think—this is ministry.
Kelly, the kids, our volunteers… we’ve all been moving, lifting, sorting, staying busy. It’s been full. It’s been a little chaotic. But in the middle of all that movement, there’s been something steady underneath it all.
God is working.
It’s easy sometimes to think ministry only happens in certain places or at certain times. Like it’s reserved for a stage, a sermon, or a structured moment. But days like today remind me—ministry happens wherever God’s people are willing to love others in His name.
One day, we’ll have people come into the store and sit down in the space we’ve set aside just to pray with them. But today… it started in a parking lot.
And it was just as real.
At the same time, I’ve been thinking about how easy it is for us to drift.
We get tired.
We get weighed down.
We get so focused on what we’re carrying that we forget why we’re carrying it.
We can start to operate in our own lane… doing our part… but losing sight that we’re all part of the same mission.
But when we lift our eyes again, when we remember who this is all for. Everything begins to come back together.
Unity returns.
Joy returns.
Purpose becomes clear again.
Today has been a reminder for me…
This is what it’s all about.
People matter.
Souls matter.
Moments matter.
And God is still working… in parking lots, in conversations, in acts of service, and in willing hearts.
Let’s not miss it.
— Pastor Justin
P.s.
As I’ve been watching all of this unfold today, I’ve also been reminded how important it is for us to stay unified, focused, and aligned in what God has called us to do.
Tonight, I’ll be sharing a message that’s been on my heart for our staff, volunteers, and anyone serving in ministry.
I believe it’s a timely word for where we are right now—and where God is leading us next.
I hope you’ll be there.
________________________________________________________
Salt & Light Thrift Store Update
We have officially begun receiving donations and what a start it has been!
From the very first day, we’ve seen carloads of donations come through, along with opportunities to connect and pray with people right there in our drop-off area. It has already been a powerful reminder that this is more than a store… it’s a ministry.
Construction is still wrapping up, and we are continuing to organize and prepare the space for opening. If you would like to help, please contact Troy Barnes at (502) 472-8577.
We are receiving donations daily from 10:00 AM–4:00 PM. If you would like to volunteer for donation intake or serve with us, you can sign up at saltandlightky.org/thrift or reach out to Troy directly.
And tonight, we’ll be making a big announcement—our official grand opening date!
Thank you for continuing to serve and give—on purpose—as we step into this next phase of what God is doing through Salt & Light Thrift.
_________________________________________________________
Prayer Cards are located at the church entrances.
If you have a prayer request, please complete a prayer card and place it in the offering plate or boxes and someone will pray for you.
_________________________________________________________
Church Happenings
Wednesday at Salt & Light – March 25
6 - 6:45 PM - Dinner | Upper Lobby Loaded Nacho or Taco Salad Bar with Beef or Chicken and Dessert
A $5 donation is requested to cover food costs with additional going to the Building Fund. If you cannot make a donation, please join us for dinner, all are welcome.
HELP WANTED!!! Cleanup after Wednesday dinner. We begin around 6:50 and could get done in 15-20 minutes with a few more hands. Please stay and help! Questions please text Katie Anasis at 937-441-4225.
Tonight | Special Gathering 7 pm
If you serve in any area of ministry, I want to personally encourage you to be here tonight.
I have a message on my heart that I believe will challenge us, unify us, and refocus us on what God has called us to do together.
This is more than just another night—it’s a moment to get our eyes back on the mission.
I hope you’ll make it a priority to be here.
Nursery - 5th Grade | Lower Level
Middle and High School Youth | Lower Level - studying through Joel with Paul Thomas _________________________________________________________
Prayer Meeting - Friday, March 27 | 6:30 PM Harrod’s Creek Baptist Church 8102 Hwy 329, Crestwood
All are welcome as we gather to pray.
_________________________________________________________
This Sunday | 11 AM Palm Sunday Message
“If They Keep Silent…” | Luke 19:40
This Sunday, we pause in our series for a special Palm Sunday message centered on Jesus’ powerful words: “If these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.”
As Jesus entered Jerusalem, the crowd had a moment to recognize Him, respond to Him, and worship Him. And in that moment, Jesus made it clear—He will be praised.
This message will challenge us not to miss our moment… to lift our eyes, find our voice, and take our place in what God is doing. Because if we stay silent, creation itself will testify.
Don’t miss this powerful time together as we worship the King who is worthy of it all.
_________________________________________________________
Sunday Bible Classes – 10 AM
Joe Dedman's Group - Upper Lobby - Adults
Verse-by-verse study through that day’s sermon scripture.
Led by Joe Dedman jdedman@montysplantfood.com
The Bible and the Constitution - Upper Lobby – Adults
The Bible is the source of the US Constitution. Study through the book “The Bible and the Constitution”
Led by Chris Duvall chrisduvall1@gmail.com
Glenn Toomey's Group - Lower Lobby – Adults
Verse-by-verse study through whole chapters of scripture.
A welcoming group active in home prayer meetings with prayer and fellowship. We seek to make Jesus the Lord of our lives and live that out daily in obedience to the calling of the Holy Spirit.
Led by Glenn Toomey gl.toomey@gmail.com
The Heart of Worship - Back of Stage – Adults and Youth
Led by Kirk Whitehouse kirk@saltandlightky.org
Young Adults (Age 18-31) 10:05 - 10:45 AM - Near the Library
Verse-by-verse study through scripture.
Led by Cheri Grinnell Cheri@SaltandLightKY.org
Youth - 6-12th Grades - Verse-by-verse study through whole chapters of scripture
High School studying through the book of John with Paul Thomas | Upper Lobby
Middle School with Sarah Thomas | Lower Level Classroom off Main Hall Youth@SaltandLightKY.org_
Children – Birth-5th Grade – Lower Level Children's Area
Nursery and Bible classes for all ages
Children’s Ministry Director Jessica Walker 502-365-0839
New Members - 1st Sunday of Each Month - Upper Lobby
One-time class for new or prospective new members of Salt & Light to learn about the core aspects of our belief, the structure and missions of our church, and to find ways to get plugged-in.
Led by Keith Holbert keith@SaltandLightKy.org _________________________________________________________
Celebrate the Resurrection at Salt & Light
Good Friday Service - April 3 | 7 PM
Resurrection Sunday - April 5
7 AM - Sunrise Service
Following Sunrise Service - 9:45 AM - Breakfast in the Upper Lobby
Scrambled Eggs, Sausage and Fruit
Volunteers are needed to serve and help clean up. Contact Dawn Downs (502) 525-2738
10 AM - Weekly Bible Study Classes and New Member Class
11 AM - Worship
_________________________________________________________
Agape Stitches - April 17th | 1- 3 PM Carol Gianzero's Home
2903 Brookside Ct. La Grange (In The Reserve at L'Esprit)
Questions - Contact Carol 720-313-0251
Ladies and teen daughters who enjoy sewing, quilting, knitting, and crochet are welcome and encouraged to attend. Please join us for our first meeting to fellowship and share ideas for this group.
There will be no childcare and sharp needles and other items will not be a good environment for young children.
_________________________________________________________
Salt and Light Academy Contact: Michelle.Elliott@SaltandLightAcademy.com
Now Hiring Mission-Minded Full-Time Educators
Kindergarten, 2nd, 4th, 5th and 6th Grade Teachers and Teacher’s Assistant
Please send your resume to Michelle.Elliott@SaltandLightAcademy.com
Salt and Light Academy Spring Showcase - Saturday, April 25 | 5:30 PM
Doors Open at 4:30 to enjoy the visual arts displays before the program starts at 5:30.
Our students will showcase their dedication and talents while sharing the vision of our school.
Penmanship
Art
Choir Performance
We invite you to remain after the showcase for the “Two Vessels” performance by our Patriot Players Troupe in the Theatre Arts department.
_________________________________________________________
Youth - Grades 6-12 Youth@SaltandLightKY.org
Survivor Weekend - May 16 - 7 AM - May 17 11 AM Local Family Farm
Compete as teams, complete outdoor challenges and camp out.
Questions - please contact Paul or Sarah Thomas Youth@SaltandLightKY.org
Registration Deadline - May 1st.
Mandatory Parent Meeting - Sunday, May 3rd after Service in the Youth Room
Sponsor a Youth Attending Summer Camp at Crossings
The total cost for each young person to attend Summer Camp is $400. For many of our families with multiple children in 6th - 12th grades that cost can be prohibitive. If you would like to sponsor a youth for this potentially life-changing week growing in their faith, please contact Paul or Sarah Thomas or email Youth@SaltandLightKY.org
_________________________________________________________
Young Adults | Next Chapter (Ages 18-31)
For anyone around 18–31 who wants to stay connected, build friendships, and grow in faith together.
Signal Group - to request to join and stay in the loop or with questions - text Joshua Rieth 502-230-6629 or Kaiden Perrodin 502-663-3681
Bible Study - Sundays | 10:05 - 10:45 AM - Meets near the Library
Questions? Email Cheri Grinnell - Cheri@SaltandLightKY.org
_________________________________________________________
Women of the Word Bible Study- Tuesdays | 9:45-11:30 AM
at Sharon Holbert’s Home
Contact Sharon 502-235-6687
_________________________________________________________
1613 Men’s Conference - July 17-18 Duke Energy Convention Center
525 Elm St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Built for real Christian men facing real life battles. Join thousands answering the call to live with strength, courage, and honor.
Details and Registration Here
For more information contact Mike Anasis (859) 640-7081
_________________________________________________________
Lee Corps - Tuesdays | 7 - 9 PM Upper Lobby
Lee Corps provides a youth led, adult facilitated, Christian cadet program to foster leadership and a love for Christ in our community’s young men, ages 12-18. They excel in leadership and military skills preparation with a Christian worldview to serve their country and communities through training in tactics and field training, Christian apologetics, marksmanship, physical conditioning, and much more.
Lee Corps is not associated with or a ministry of Salt & Light Church but uses our facilities for their weekly training and welcomes interested young men to attend. No registration required.
Younger boys are welcome if they can sit through and be engaged in the presentations.
For more information LeeCorps.org or contact LtCol (Ret) Michael Muller (270) 300-1571
or Lauren Engle (502) 802-1688
_________________________________________________________
Serving Opportunities & Needs
Building Fund - The building purchase and maintenance needs continue in 2026. Thank you for prayerfully considering giving an offering toward the property purchase. Please memo your offerings “Building Fund”.
In 2021, when Salt & Light outgrew our former location, God provided the beautiful 71 acre property with a former horse auction facility and barn where we now gather as a church family.
We entered a lease to own agreement with a payment due December 31 of each year until the purchase is complete.
_________________________________________________________
Recurring Monthly Giving - As the Lord continues to grow His work among us, one way many choose to serve is through recurring monthly giving. This helps provide steady support for the ministry and allows us to plan wisely while trusting God completely.
If you’re interested, you can explore this option through our online giving page by visiting the website. Thank you for your faithfulness. "God truly does fund what He calls."
_________________________________________________________
Baptistry Maintenance - volunteer opportunity to serve caring for the draining, cleaning, refilling, etc. of the baptistry. For more details please email SaltandLightBC@gmail.com
_________________________________________________________
Food Pantry
Have you ever wanted to get involved with the food pantry but weren’t sure where to start? We would love to have you join us! One way to serve is by helping during our appointments with families in the community who visit. It’s a meaningful way to connect and be part of what God is doing through this ministry.
Bible Donations - The Food Pantry gives a Bible to many of our visitors. Children’s Bibles are especially popular. We are not requesting purchasing Bibles. If you have gently used Bibles that you no longer use or that your children have aged out of, it would be a blessing if you could donate them for us to share.
Meal Kits - a new volunteer opportunity and way to give - purchase and assemble quick and easy dinner kits. They are very popular and a big help for busy families. Each kit includes all of the ingredients along with the recipe card so it’s simple to prepare at home. The kits don’t need to be fancy - quick, easy, and cost-effective - helping make it a little easier for a family to prepare a nutritious meal at home.
Create kit(s) from your favorite simple recipes or check the Salt & Light Family Facebook group for posts with recipes.
Most Needed:
Ground Beef, Chicken, Turkey and Pork
Breakfast Sausage
Needed to Stock the Pantry
Frozen Pizza
Frozen Lasagna
Eggs
Tuna
Hamburger Helper
Canned Fruit Cocktail
Chef Boyardee
Spaghetti/Pasta sauce
Please place food and Bibles in bags labeled “Food Pantry” on the hospitality counter near the Coffee Connection. Please ask the volunteers to place perishable items in the refrigerator.
If you prefer to donate financially, our volunteers will shop for you. Please designate “Food Pantry” on your check or when giving online.
Thank you for donating and praying for this ministry!
If you are in need of food or know someone in need, would like to volunteer to serve in the pantry, or have questions, please text Kristen Tingle 502-931-7987
_________________________________________________________
Children’s Ministry
For More Details or to Serve - text Jessica Walker 502-365-0839
Easter Egg Hunt - April 4
Needed: Empty plastic eggs and small items to fill eggs: individually wrapped candy and small favors - stickers, keychains, sticky hands, bracelets, figurines, stampers, etc. Bulk favors are available from Amazon and Oriental Trading.
Please take items to Children's Ministry in the Lower Level.
Volunteer Opportunity to Take Home: fill empty eggs with donated filler items.
Eggs and filler items provided.
Busy Bags - 2 volunteers are needed to serve weekly or bi-weekly to empty used items and replenish the busy bags provided to children who attend worship.
Teachers for 4-6 year old class - 11a Sundays
Music with the Children - if you are musically gifted, we would love for you to teach and sing Bible songs with the children twice each month or as you have time to share.
Substitute and Rotational Teachers are needed to fill in for 1 class or multiple weeks when regular teachers are unavailable or to give them a break for a month or so.
Special Needs - Volunteers are needed to serve as one-on-one buddies in class with children with special needs.
Vacation Bible School - July 20 - 24 | 6 - 8 PM
Emerald Crossing - An Irish Adventure through Psalm 23
Volunteers are needed in a variety of areas! Sign up now to serve.
Items Currently Needed: School Glue, Hot Glue Gun Sticks, 5 gallon Buckets, Newspapers, Zip Sandwich and Gallon Bags. Please take to the Children’s Ministry area in the Lower Level.
First Work Day - Sunday, April 19 after service - any time you can give that afternoon will be appreciated
_________________________________________________________
Salt & Light Academy
Classroom Build Supplies Needed - new classrooms have recently been constructed and a few items are needed to complete the project. If you have any of these items you could donate, know a donor, or would like to give money to purchase supplies, please see the listing of needed items here.
Questions contact Kurt Shelton 502-387-0960
Lunch & Recess Volunteers - Interact with and help the children to give the teachers a planning period. A background check is required. Email Michelle Elliott michelle.elliott@saltandlightacademy.com
Please continue to pray, promote, and support Salt and Light Academy. Your ongoing giving keeps the school fully funded and tuition-free, and every gift matters.
One-time or auto pay weekly, bi-monthly, or monthly donations may be made or set up online Here
Donations of needed supplies for classes and the office are greatly appreciated. You can view and give through our Amazon Wish List
_________________________________________________________
Wednesday Dinner Volunteers
Assist with food prep at Katie’s house in Shelbyville on Tuesday and/or Wednesday.
We don't need a weekly commitment, anything you can do to lend a hand will be greatly appreciated!
Contact Katie Anasis by call or text 937-441-4225. Thanks so much!
_________________________________________________________
Salt & Light Library
Open Sundays 8:30 - 11 AM and 15 min after service
Wednesdays 5 - 7 PM and 15 min after service
Volunteers Needed - Text Sharon Holbert 502-235-6687
Book Donations appreciated — view our wishlist:
_________________________________________________________
Family Communication Board
We have a bulletin board in the Upper Lobby inside the main entrance, on the wall above the giving box across from the Connection Point area, for you to post needs you would be blessed to receive and shares you would like to give.
Freely Receive - If you have a need - a service or item or a friend to do something with - please post it on the side of the board labeled “Freely Receive”.
Freely Give – when you have something to give - a lawn mower that still works, furniture you aren't using, a willingness to serve by sharing a skill or some spare time - please post on the side of the board labeled “Freely Given”.
Note papers are in the basket to write your give and receive notes to post on the board.
This is not a buy, sell, or trade board, but a family sharing board.
The only money that should be exchanged would be a paycheck if you are offering to hire someone.
Check our family sharing board often, there may be a message that will be a blessing for you!!
_________________________________________________________
Care Ministry
If you are in need of care (hospital, long-term facility, homebound), please contact Salt & Light at 502-265-6828
_________________________________________________________
Stay Connected – Join Our Facebook Groups
Stay encouraged and connected!
_________________________________________________________
Have an Announcement of an Event or Volunteer Need?
Please email new submissions by Monday each week to Marie Long at Long12686@gmail.com
Thanks for helping us keep everything clear and timely!