What Do These Stones Mean?
Salt and Light Newsletter
June 3, 2026
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Pastor’s Thoughts
This week marks fifteen years since Salt & Light Church held its very first service.
Whenever I think about milestones, my mind often goes to Joshua chapter 4.
After God miraculously brought Israel across the Jordan River, He commanded them to take twelve stones from the middle of the river and set them up as a memorial. At first glance, it may seem like God was simply asking them to remember what He had done. But there was a much greater purpose.
The Lord said:
"When your children ask in time to come, saying, ‘What do these stones mean to you?’ then you shall answer them..." (Joshua 4:6-7, NKJV)
The memorial was not merely about the past. It was about the future.
The stones would stand as a testimony to the next generation that God is faithful, God keeps His promises, and God makes a way where there seems to be no way.
As we celebrate fifteen years of Salt & Light Church, I do not want us to simply look backward. Certainly, we should thank God for His faithfulness. We have seen people saved, families restored, disciples made, missionaries sent, ministries launched, and countless lives touched by the Gospel.
But the purpose of remembering is not nostalgia.
The purpose of remembering is testimony.
We remember so that we can tell the next generation what God has done.
We remember so that our children know that God is faithful.
We remember so that future believers will have confidence that the same God who worked in the past is still working today.
"One generation shall praise Your works to another, And shall declare Your mighty acts." (Psalm 145:4, NKJV)
In many ways, Salt & Light Church itself is becoming one of those memorial stones. Not a monument to people, but a testimony to the goodness and faithfulness of God.
Fifteen years ago, we stepped out in faith. Today, we continue to walk by faith.
When I look back, I do not simply see a church that survived fifteen years. I see a God who has proven Himself faithful time and time again.
I think about the moments when the bills were due and we did not know how we would make it, only to watch God provide exactly what was needed. I think about checks arriving at just the right time, sometimes for the exact amount that we lacked.
I think about the opportunity God gave us to move into a building that was far beyond anything we could have imagined years ago. It was a step of faith then, and it continues to be a step of faith today.
I think about Salt & Light Academy. Two years ago, launching a tuition-free Christian school seemed impossible to many people. Yet month after month, God has faithfully provided. He has supplied the resources, the volunteers, the teachers, and the support needed to continue this mission of reaching the next generation.
I think about the thrift store, which began as another step of faith and has already exceeded our expectations. In such a short amount of time, we are seeing God use it to support ministry, create opportunities, and open doors we never anticipated.
Over and over again, we have found the same thing to be true:
"The LORD is faithful, who will establish you and guard you..." (2 Thessalonians 3:3, NKJV)
When God leads His people forward, He also provides what is needed along the way.
The stones at the Jordan reminded Israel that God could be trusted. The stories of God's faithfulness in our own church remind us of the same thing.
And that is why I am excited about the future.
Not because of what we can accomplish.
Not because of what plans we have made.
But because the God who has faithfully carried us through the last fifteen years has not changed.
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever." (Hebrews 13:8, NKJV)
The same God who provided then will provide now.
The same God who opened doors then will open doors now.
The same God who led us then will lead us now.
And I believe our greatest testimony is still being written.
I hope you will join us this Sunday as we celebrate fifteen years of God's faithfulness, worship together, hear testimonies of His goodness, and look ahead with anticipation to all that He has yet to do.
"For the LORD has done great things for us, And we are glad." (Psalm 126:3, NKJV)
The same God who brought us this far is not finished yet.
Pastor Justin________________________________________________
Baptisms
While we did not have any baptisms this week, the baptistry will be open and ready during our 15-Year Celebration Service this Sunday. Over the past fifteen years, one of the greatest evidences of God's grace at Salt & Light Church has been seeing people place their faith in Christ and publicly identify with Him through baptism. If you have trusted Christ as your Savior but have never taken that step of obedience, we would love to talk with you. As we celebrate God's faithfulness over the last fifteen years, what better way could there be than to see someone follow Christ in baptism?
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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.
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Church Happenings
Wednesday at Salt & Light – June 3
5:45 PM - The Real Life Group | Upper Lobby - Left Side Near Playground Entrance
Life isn't meant to be lived alone. Beginning tonight, we invite you to join **The Real Life Group**, a new opportunity to build meaningful relationships, share life's highs and lows, and discuss how God's Word applies to everyday life. The group is designed to help people grow in community, encouragement, and connection. Little ones are welcome, and older children may enjoy time playing outside together (weather permitting). Whether you're new to Salt & Light or have been here for years, we'd love for you to join us as we walk through life together.
Questions Contact Ryan and Mandy Gossom 502-773-8453
7 PM - Worship
Join us this Wednesday at 7 PM as we begin a brand-new study through the book of Ephesians titled The Blueprint. In this opening message from Ephesians 1, we will discover God's blueprint for the Christian life by exploring the incredible spiritual blessings that belong to every believer in Christ. Before God ever calls us to walk worthy, He reminds us of who we are, what we have, and all that He has accomplished for us through Jesus. This is a foundational study you won't want to miss.
Nursery - 5th Grade | Lower Level
Middle and High School Youth | Lower Level - with Paul Thomas
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This Sunday! - June 7
15-Year Celebration Service
Join us this Sunday as we celebrate 15 years of God's faithfulness at Salt & Light Church! Weather permitting, we will gather outdoors for one special combined service beginning at 10:00 AM (please note the earlier start time). There will be no Sunday School, children's ministries, or separate classes that morning as we come together as one church family for a time of worship, testimonies, baptisms, and a special message reflecting on God's faithfulness and looking ahead to the future He has for us.
Following the service, we'll enjoy a church-wide cookout, inflatables for the kids, cornhole, volleyball, and plenty of fellowship. Whether you've been here for fifteen years or fifteen days, we would love for you to join us as we celebrate all that God has done and all that He is still doing.
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Sunday Bible Classes – 10 AM - will not meet Sunday, June 7th, resume June 14th
Joe Dedman's Group - Upper Lobby - Adults
Verse-by-verse study through that day’s sermon scripture.
Led by Joe Dedman jdedman@montysplantfood.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 - June 14 - 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 _________________________________________________________
Agape Stitches - Friday, June 5 | 1- 3 PM Carol Gianzero's Home 2903 Brookside Ct. La Grange (The Reserve at L'Esprit)
Ladies and teen daughters who enjoy or would like to learn sewing, quilting, knitting, and crochet are welcome and encouraged to attend. We make a variety of projects to bless cancer patients, shelters, hospitals, police, and others. A project will be provided at each meeting.
There will be no childcare and sharp needles and other items will not be a good environment for young children.
Future meeting dates: June 26, July 10 & 31.
If you are interested in making items to contribute but cannot attend meetings, please contact Carol.
Questions - Contact Carol 720-313-0251
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Prayer Meeting - Friday, June 5 | 6:30 PM Harrod’s Creek Baptist
8102 Hwy 329, Crestwood
All are welcome as we gather with fellow believers from churches in our community to pray. _________________________________________________________
Men's Bible Study - Every Saturday | 8:30 AM The Coffeehouse & Cafe
408 S 1st St, LaGrange
Everyone from young adults to older adults is welcome as we study Colossians.
Questions? Contact Aaron Rieth 502-829-3024
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Youth Camp at Crossings - June 12-16
Please pray for our 49 Youth in grades 6-12 and their 10 chaperones as they prepare to attend summer camp. Pray that it will be life-changing as they grow in their faith, surrender their lives to Jesus Christ, and that He will be glorified. _________________________________________________________
The Brotherhood Men’s Discipleship - Saturday, June 13 | 10 AM
Upper Lobby
Men 18 and over are encouraged to attend this small group discipleship.
Contact Aaron Phillips 502-645-0745
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Community Evangelism Outreach - Saturday, June 13 | 3 PM
Let’s continue as the harvest is ready.
Weather permitting, we’ll meet in the front parking lot, divide into teams and pray before we head out at 3:30. We should conclude by 5 pm.
Questions or weather concerns text Bruce Karcher at 615 482-3158 ________________________________________________________
Vacation Bible School Work Day - Sunday, June 28 | After Service - 4 PM
Bring your lunch and join us in preparing for VBS July 20-24. Any time you can give that afternoon will be appreciated.
The previously scheduled Work Day on June 7 is cancelled for the 15th Anniversary Celebration.
Future Work Days - July 5, 12, and 19
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Pat Barrett "I've Got A Fire" Tour - Saturday, October 3rd | 7 PM Salt & Light
Featuring new songs alongside beloved anthems like "Build My Life" and "Good Good Father", this is sure to be a joy-filled worship experience you will not want to miss.
Info patbarrettmusic.com
Tickets to the Salt & Light concert are available here
Questions? Contact Karen Shelton 502-639-6558
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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
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Homeless Ministry - Tuesdays | 5:30 PM Local Homeless Shelter
Share the gospel and bless the shelter residents with necessities.
Contact Bruce Karcher 615-482-3158 for details or to ride together. _________________________________________________________
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
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Salt and Light Academy Contact: Michelle.Elliott@SaltandLightAcademy.com
Now Hiring Mission-Minded Full-Time Teacher for 5th/ 6th Class
Please send your resume to Michelle.Elliott@SaltandLightAcademy.com
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Salt & Light Thrift 200 W. Jefferson St. LaGrange
Sunday - Closed | Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10-8 | Wednesday 10-6
Accepting Donations Monday - Saturday 10-6
Volunteers Needed - Assist with Intake & Sorting of Donations and Serving Guests
Earn $3 Love Bucks Gift Certificates to the store for every hour you serve.
Sign Up Here
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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
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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.
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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."
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Baptistry Maintenance
Volunteer is needed to serve caring for the draining, cleaning, refilling, etc. of the baptistry.
For more details please email SaltandLightKY@gmail.com _________________________________________________________
Grounds Volunteers Needed
Mow and/or weed eat the church property. Equipment provided, flexible schedule.
Contact Kurt Shelton 502-265-6828 _________________________________________________________
Security Team Recruitment Call
Volunteers are needed to serve with the Security Team for Sunday and Wednesday services and special events.
Text Mike Muller 270-300-1571 or Ryan Jansen 502-403-9841
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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 - purchase and assemble quick and easy dinner kits that include the recipe and all of the ingredients to prepare the meal. The kits don’t need to be fancy - quick, easy, and cost-effective are perfect and a big help for busy families.
Create kit(s) from your favorite simple recipes or check the Salt & Light Family Facebook group for posts with recipes.
Most Needed Items to Stock the Pantry
Ground Beef, Chicken, Turkey and Pork
Breakfast Sausage
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
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Children’s Ministry
For More Details or to Serve - text Jessica Walker 502-365-0839
Immediate Need: Special Needs - Volunteers are needed to serve as one-on-one buddies in class with children with special needs. We have more children than buddies so having to turn families away until more volunteers step in to serve.
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.
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.
Work Days - June 28, July 5, 12 & 19 | After Service until 4 PM
Items Currently Needed: Ping Pong Balls. Please take to the Children’s Ministry area in the Lower Level.
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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
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Agape Stitches
Donations of materials are needed for our projects to bless cancer patients, shelters, hospitals, police, and others:
Fabric (scraps are welcome)
Yarn
Sheets and Pillowcases
Zippers and Sewing Notions
Please place donations in a bag labeled "Agape Stitches" on the counter in the Upper Lobby on Sundays.
Future meeting dates: June 5 & 26, July 10 & 31.
A Saturday meeting will be announced soon.
If you are interested in being involved but cannot attend meetings, please contact Carol 720-313-0251
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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:
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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!!
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Care Ministry
If you are in need of care (hospital, long-term facility, homebound), please contact Salt & Light at 502-265-6828
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Stay Connected – Join Our Facebook Groups
Stay encouraged and connected!
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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!