From The Interim Pastor:
Inevitable Change
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From The Interim Pastor: Inevitable Change |
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By now you have heard that Jennifer Yocum, our second interim pastor on staff, will be departing on January 6 to accept the call of the Forest Grove United Church of Christ in Forest Grove, Oregon. Among the many things we will miss will be
Jennifer's energy, her compassionate pastoral care, and her dedication
to issues of justice. I am excited for the wonderful opportunity that
she has been given and I am pleased that this congregation had a hand in
shaping Jennifer as a pastor. We have received much from her, but she
has also received much from you. This is a positive environment in which
to learn the basics of pastoral ministry. I hope other young pastors in
the years to come will also have that same opportunity. It is a gift you
have to offer. Jennifer's leaving is just one more example
that life continues to flow and that change is inevitable. Of course,
you know that, but with each change in our lives we learn more about
ourselves. I hope you have come to appreciate how resilient you are as a
congregation. It's true! I believe that this congregation has a stronger
sense of itself and its own identity because of the changes you have
known. People who are new to the congregation experience that about you.
In the last few months we have received two large groups of new members
into the life of the church. They did not join the church because of the
pastors (Jennifer and I were clear about our interim status). No, they
joined this church because of you. They have felt the Spirit of God in
your midst. They have known your warm welcome. And, they share your
vision of a faith community that commits itself to worship,
spirituality, community, and social justice. I know this interim time has gone on longer
than anyone imagined, myself included! But I hope you see the strengths
of the church that have been reinforced during this period of time. You
are not idly sitting by. You are moving forward. You have been a
blessing to Jennifer. You are a blessing to each other. And, you will be
a blessing to your next lead pastor. My plan is to remain in place and to continue
to serve as your interim lead pastor until your permanent pastor is
called. It has been a joy to share the ministry with you and I look
forward to the work we can still accomplish together as we follow the
Spirit's leading! Blessings! |