by Jennie Wintermote, WDC Resource Library Director

It is with great joy that I sit down to write my first article as the Resource Library Director.  Since I was in middle school I hoped to someday “grow up to be Marlene” (former WDC Resource Librarian and Minister of Christian Nurture).  I am humbled to have this opportunity to continue her good work of connecting individuals and churches with resources to challenge and help people grow in their faith and their relationship with Jesus Christ.  I am also excited to dream about the future of the library, discerning what form the collection will take in the future, and what resources will meet your needs.  I would love to meet you and hear what you appreciate about the library, and what your hopes and dreams are for the future of the library.  Please email (crlib@mennowdc.org), call (316-283-6300), or stop by.  I am in the library Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30-11:30 am.  (However, the library is always open when the WDC offices are.)

This is not only a new beginning for me, but also for the library, and it seems fitting that these new beginnings are happening during Advent.  Advent is the beginning of a new liturgical year.  It is also a time of waiting and longing for the light of Christ to enter our dark world.  It is a time when we pause to consider the longings of our hearts, a time when we begin to think of New Year’s resolutions and making changes.  I invite you to consider what ways you might explore your own longings this Advent season.  Do you long to experience God in new ways this year?  Might you long for deeper, faith-filled relationships, or a different way to interact with this broken world?  Or do you long for strength and encouragement to get through the day?  Visiting the Resource Library is one way to explore these longings.   As you read and consider the ideas shared by others walking this journey, you have the opportunity to explore and encounter in new ways.  Let us be a part of your journey of faith.

May you experience joyful longing and anticipation this Advent season.