FROM THE PASTOR
When someone asks me what interim ministry is about, my answer starts with a single word: partnership.
Interim ministry is a partnership of the synod and the congregation during a time of pastoral transition. Pastors like me are called by the synod to work with congregations like Faith, helping them come to terms with their history, deal with leadership and changes in leadership, explore their mission, strengthen the ties between the congregation and the larger church, and to prepare to receive the new pastor with new gifts.
The partnership I have found at Faith has been truly a gift from God. The patience and thoughtfulness of the call committee, the perseverance of the council members, the dedication of the staff members, and the overwhelming service of the many volunteers have been wonders to behold.
It has not been an easy time, moving from one permanent pastor to the next. The congregation has adapted to its new size and reshaped its ministry along the way. Financially, things are stable, though everyone would like them to be stronger so as to be able to pay down our debt faster.
And yet, it has been a very fruitful time. Faith has learned a great deal about itself, and about what it means to do ministry in this place. You have taught me much about what it means to welcome strangers, by the welcome you gave to me. I have seen you reach out to those in need in the most amazing ways, through your work with MLM, Uplift, Northeast Hope, Angel Tree, and so many other groups. I have seen you rejoice with one another in happy times, and offer comfort and solace in times of grief and pain. I have seen you say farewell as old friends move away, and I was touched by the farewell you gave to me on Sunday. In all these things, I have been blessed.
God is truly at work here.
Now, with your call to Brenda Crossfield to be your new pastor, Faith is moving into a new chapter of its history, and. I will be going on to serve another congregation as their interim pastor. Both of us, though, will share the memories of the partnership we have shared during our time together.
Thank you for your faithful witness to God’s love, your passion for ministry and service, and your partnership with me, with one another, and with God!
Peace,
Pastor Peter
