The Path Onward

You have a new pastor! Last week’s vote and decision was a thrilling experience, and it marked a major step forward for this congregation. This community will have new leadership, one who promises to bring joy, love and attention here, as well as a challenge to take on discipleship, an even deeper presence in the community, and new ways of handling life. With that I come to the end of my process here. The purpose of transitional ministry is bringing a community to the threshold of the future. You step through this doorway onto a new pathway, a new adventure. See the Road flows past your doorstep Calling for your feet to stray Like a deep and rolling river It will sweep them far away. This road outside our doorways leads us into the adventure of God’s grace. We never know what life will hold or where the adventure of following the Lord’s guidance will lead, but we know who holds our hand. We know whose voice directs our steps. We know we can trust the one who calls us onward because he is the one who will bring us home. Just beyond the far horizon Lies a waiting world unknown Like the dawn its beauty beckons With a wonder all its own. [J. R. R. Tolkien] This last month with you will be a time of work, celebration, and anticipation. I intended to be here until the week before your new pastor came. Life got in the way of that plan. Beckie and I began a procedure of gaining a year-long Visa in order to live in Ireland, and we have to be ready to move as that comes through. So, my last day will be July 31st. A list of preachers has been prepared and is scheduled for the weeks before Pastor Jason arrives in September, so you will be in good hands. Blessings, Geoff