Hello,

My name is Willard Uhler, and I am Pastor of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church located at 99 Church street in Hamburg, Pennsylvania. 

I want to welcome you to visit our web-site and invite you to participate in our congregational activities.

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances……..” 1 Thessalonians 5:16

November is our nation’s traditional month for giving thanks, However, the only one who is not giving “thanks” on this day is the turkey!

This biblical passage can be unappreciated especially when we are dealing with hardships such as illness, loss of job and death. How can we give thanks in all circumstances?
It can be very difficult.

During my recuperation and rehabilitation, I was fortunate enough to go to Good Shepherd. There I was challenged and encouraged. My surgeon told me: “The operation was a success but the recovery is up to you. You can either work hard or you can live your life in a wheel chair”. I took his advice and worked hard. I did all they wanted me to do at Good Shepherd and more. I had four therapy sessions daily and I must confess I was not always joyful…..I did a lot of praying and I believe that helped me succeed. But what I was reminded of was the full meaning of giving thanks. This passage means: we are to give thanks in ALL circumstances.

Why should we believe or practice this type of thanksgiving? It is because the Lord uses these experiences, to teach us something for: now or later. Therefore, we are to use these times for thanksgiving. We may not know why but we are to trust God and always give thanks.

As a result of these experiences, I feel joyful and pray; giving thanks to God and for all of you who have supported me during this time.

Have a Blessed Thanksgiving,

Pastor Uhler