LETTER FROM KATIE • May 27, 2026

Vincent van Gogh (Netherlands, 1853–1890), La pluie (Enclosed Field with a Sower in the Rain), 1890. Pencil and chalk

Dear Holy Comforter,

It feels strange to write about spiritual dryness in the midst of a long stretch of rainy days, but there it is.

We are five months into a new church plant, three days out from the Feast of Pentecost, and many of us are feeling dry and weary as we limp into the summer and ordinary time.

I read these words today from Johann Christoph Blumhardt (1805–1880), a Lutheran pastor, and they felt like something one of us could have written:

“In that first outpouring of the Spirit we had proof that God keeps his word. But now we need a new outpouring. We are dehydrated people; the thirst is almost killing us… And since we need the Spirit again, God will also give it again so that new life may spring up among people of childlike faith. We have the promise….

Oh, might it begin soon! And can’t it be possible in our poor, arid time? Oh, may we implore God to let the new time break in, to wait no longer but come make us alive and revive all that seems doomed to death. Let us take heart! May this promise give us fresh courage to wait, in confidence and joy, for the great hour to come! Praised be his name! Amen.”

On Sunday, we lit candles and joined our prayers together as we asked for the gifts of the Holy Spirit. I wanted to share those prayers with you so that we can continue praying for one another.

Many of us prayed for the gift of Counsel, that we would learn to listen to God in our hearts and follow God’s guidance in what we do and how we do it.

Some of us prayed for Strength, that we would have the courage to love and follow God, especially when it is difficult.

And still others prayed for Wisdom so that we might use what we know to love God and others and to follow God’s way.

To that, I’d add that I’m praying for refreshment, for renewed courage, and the quiet work of the Spirit among us. And so come, Holy Comforter–refresh what is dry, strengthen what is weak, and make new life grow among us.

With much love,

Katie