It was wonderful talking with them and learning that Bob was the architect who designed the Education Building in the 1960’s. Jim shared with me how helpful Matt Smith had been to him when he lived out of the area and wanted to return quickly to be with his mom, Nola, after his dad’s sudden passing. I took a picture of Jim and Kris in front of the garden just behind the sanctuary which was a favorite of Nola’s. We thumbed through old directories looking at pictures of his parents. Later, I learned that Nola rode her bicycle to church every Sunday. She was ahead of her time!
I am so pleased to have made this connection with Jim and Kris. It is my hope that Jim may be able to fill in some of the blank spots in our church history with anecdotes, and perhaps even pictures, that they have from the time of the construction of the Education Building.
Looking back at the history of the congregation will be one of the tasks that Session will lead during the interim period after my retirement. The history of the congregation is one component of the Mission Study which our denomination requires before a congregation may begin looking for a pastor.
Many of you have asked about the steps that must be completed before a new pastor can join you. Jackie Barker, the Clerk of Session, and I put together the timeline shown in the next section of this newsletter. Ideally, your next pastor will be called in time to lead Advent services in 2027. However, the dates shown are only possible under the best of circumstances. The process sometimes takes two years or longer from the previous pastor’s retirement. So, I encourage you to be patient (remember, patience is the fourth characteristic listed as fruit of the Spirit). See Galatians 5:22 for the others.
Calling a new pastor may seem like a daunting task. However, this time can also be exciting as you reflect on the past and plan for the future. You and your leadership at FPCA have experience with the call process. I have complete confidence that you are capable of every step. In addition, the Presbytery is here to help.
You have well established ministries to continue during the search process. I heard that there were 37 people at the Summer Soup Supper last night, many of whom were friends from the neighborhood. This is meaningful fellowship and community outreach. Speaking of food, the “Worship on the Lawn” is only a month away, on August 9th, with a BBQ in the courtyard after worship. Invite friends and neighbors to come with you.
During the interim period, you will continue to extend friendship to visitors. Welcoming strangers into the sanctuary for worship is not only a Biblical directive, but it is a delightful way to meet new (and sometimes former) brothers and sisters in Christ.
With appreciation for your friendliness,
Pastor Cindy
