journeys-page

I like to write this weekly letter to the congregation as a way to provide another connecting point in our journeys of faith. It gives me an opportunity to preach and teach about the stuff of our lives. It is different that the communication that goes on in the sermon or even in the newsletter. I like to write about the part of our journey with God and each other that is personal, audible, visible. I like to reflect in a way that causes you to reflect. Then, once you are comfortable with this mode of communicating, I like to invite you to write your own, “Guest Journeys,” to share how you’ve experienced God in your lives with the congregation. I truly believe that life is a journey of faith. As church, we covenant to share that journey. We support one another, back each other up; come to trust one another enough to share our doubts and fears. We know we’re on this journey . . . Together. I thank God for sending me to be in this relationship with you here at Trinity. I move forward to my next path as retired pastor and Pa Pa to my grandkids. For 8 years I’ve been saying that you are stuck with me, and I am stuck with you. Now Cindy’s eight year term is up and it’s time for both of us to retire. And we’ve lived through a lot together in those 8 years; the Eclipse; we’ve gone through COVID and back. So here we are: AN ORDER OF FAREWELL TO A PASTOR Pastor: I thank you, the members and friends of Trinity United Methodist Church, for the love and support you have shown me while I have ministered among you. I am grateful for the ways my leadership has been accepted. I ask forgiveness for the mistakes I have made. As I leave, I carry with me all that I have learned here. People: We receive your thankfulness, offer forgiveness, and accept that you now leave to retire. We express our gratitude for your time among us. We ask your forgiveness for our mistakes. Your influence on our faith and faithfulness will not leave us with your departure. Pastor: I accept your gratitude and forgiveness, and I forgive you, trusting that our time together and our parting are pleasing to God. I release you from turning to me and depending on me. I encourage your continuing ministry here and will pray for you and for your new pastor, Rev. April Wegehaupt. Let us pray. (All) Eternal God, whose steadfast love for us is from everlasting to everlasting, we give you thanks for cherished memories and commend one another into your care as we move in new directions. Keep us one in your love forever, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Grace & Peace,