12/31/2024
I read this quote this morning on a clergy page I follow and thought it appropriate for what’s happening in my life today: Often when you think you’re at the end of something, you’re at the beginning of something else. I’ve felt that many times.
My hope for all of us is that the miles we go before we sleep will be filled with all the feelings that come from deep caring - delight, sadness, joy, wisdom - and that in all the endings of our life, we will be able to see the new beginnings (Fred Rogers).
Today marks my last day as Associate Pastor at Riverside Community Church. It has been a wonderful journey to come into ministry and serve at the church I’ve grown up in. 43 years (life) and 4 and a bit years (ministry) certainly make this place a home with deep roots. This change is hard for myself and my congregation but I know that God has good plans for all of us. I want to thank my Riverside family for allowing me to grow, learn, and serve, but also to heal and recover from all the ups and downs I’ve experienced in my life at Riverside. God has richly blessed me with this family and I do not know where I’d be in life without you. Though I don’t yet know where God is leading for full time employment, I have a new part time opportunity to do pastoral care at Gilmore Lodge and I look forward to that opportunity. So, thank you, friends and family who have supported, encouraged, prayed for, and loved me, you are truly and deeply appreciated and I pray Numbers 6:24-26 over each of you “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”
Numbers 6:24-26 NIV
