Dear Friends and Family at St. John’s,

Featured in this edition of The Enlightener is Rev. Addie’s note in which she shares her bittersweet thoughts on her time at St. John’s and her parting. A ministry of 10 years that saw so much change is impossible to convey in one letter, but we are all grateful for her time here. I am most grateful for Rev. Addie’s love of God, the Church of Christ and the people of St. John’s.

Right now is a time to feel our feelings rather than to ignore or even fear them. We acknowledge our fears about the future, but do not give in to them. Instead, let us recognize that God does not send fear into the hearts of God’s people. When we receive messages of fear and hopelessness they are generally from what I like to call: “the other spirit.” Sure, at times we can see some truth in a message of doom, but ironically it is sometimes harder for us to see the promise that is near or even just around the corner.

We will always have challenges in our future, for nothing will change unless we actively invite that change and work within and among us to realize the change that is God’s future. St. John’s is about to embark on a future with a Settled Lead Pastor that will provide the opportunity to work towards a shared vision of divine servanthood.

For now, I encourage you to think about the ways in which God and St. John’s have been a positive support to you in the past. The promises that God has fulfilled in the past are our best guide to a hopefulness about our future – a future that is unknown and unknowable, but already held in God’s hand before we can “see” it. I cherish the opportunity to walk together with you as your “new” Lead Bridge Pastor as we journey towards St. John’s future – a future of promise and joy!

Peace,

Pastor Tom

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