“Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give as the world gives. Don’t let your hearts be troubled or fearful.” John 14:27
The week before Jesus’ crucifixion, these were among his words to the disciples, assuring them of peace, knowing they would need it. We’ve perhaps all been feeling tossed around by one storm or another the last couple of years—whether by the global pandemic, personal health issues, world events, or even by changes at church—from Pastor Brian assuming a new role in our city last fall, to Jonathan announcing his resignation last week. In all of this, we pray that you will feel God’s peace and know that it is sufficient to weather life’s storms.
Living Under God’s Grace: Many of you have been praying fervently for Jonathan and his family, your elders, and our church community as we absorb the news of Jonathan’s resignation. We remain ever grateful for your prayers and have faith that God is in the midst of all of this. By his grace, there are doors opening to explore together a path forward. Please pray for reconciliation and for an outcome that is healthy for Jonathan and his family as well as our church community.
Looking Toward the Future: Your council is putting in place a framework for exploration of congregational needs and calling, in anticipation of searching for new staff. It is common for this process to take some time, but look forward to a time of discerning together, as we shape future direction and hiring decisions.
In Person and Livestream Worship: We’re looking forward to opening the church for both in person and livestream worship beginning this Sunday. As the world turns increasingly to an endemic response to Covid-19, we, too, offer an in person option as more and more people return to as normal a life as they can. While we’re excited about the opportunity to gather together once again, we also realize that in person worship may not be the best option for those whose bodies are more fragile. As we each make decisions about participating in person or via livestream, we can all reflect on how we can support and serve one another in love, no matter where we worship. Perhaps there is a conversation to enjoy, a book to share, a walk to be had, or a meal to deliver… Please also feel free to reach out to your council—we would love to talk with you, pray with you, or otherwise share in both your sorrows and joys.
God’s grace and peace to you.
