Dear Friends,
Faith journeys are stories of life, death, and resurrection. Since mid-2019 we have journeyed together in life and ministry. For the past year we have experienced a challenging trail, distanced by the pandemic and the precautions necessary for public health. With the hopeful outlook of rising vaccination and the lifting of the pandemic, we can look forward to gathering again soon for worship and in the months ahead relaunching ministries where we gather in familiar and new ways. Yet, as pastor and congregation, over the next three and a half months our journey will lead us to a place where our ministry paths diverge in different directions.
Earlier this week I was introduced to the leadership of La Vernia United Methodist Church as their next pastor.
Very soon, your District Superintendent, The Rev. Andy Smith, will consult with the Canyon Lake UMC Leadership Council to discuss your needs as a congregation. He will then take part in discernment with the Bishop and Cabinet that will lead to the Bishop’s appointment of your next pastor. At such time, the District Superintendent will introduce your next pastor to the Leadership Council. Once the introduction meeting is complete and the pastor has informed her/his current church of the move, the Council will announce the appointment to the congregation.
Serving as your pastor in this challenging time has been an honor. We will continue to worship and serve together as we experience this transition. I am praying for you, the church leadership, and your next pastor. I can’t help but lament the time we missed being together through all this. Though I am excited for this new ministry opportunity, I am also grieving that our journey together is coming to an end.
In the months ahead, we will have opportunities to reminisce, to continue planning for the future, and to prepare for the transition. Through June 24th, I continue to be your pastor. I will do everything in my power to work with you and assist you as we make this transition.
Grace and Peace, Pastor Michael
