Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus!
After thirteen years of serving as Lead Pastor at St. James Lutheran, the Spirit is calling me to ministry in Naples, Florida. July 31 will be my last Sunday as a pastor to the St. James Lutheran community. I shared this information in a letter that was mailed out last week. In case you didn’t get it, you can read it here (click).
This change of call comes with both excitement for what lies ahead and sadness as the time has come to say goodbye. We have shared much together and I will always treasure the life-giving relationships that were formed in our time together.
Saying goodbye is an important task for both community and pastor. It is good to reflect upon, give thanksgiving for, and say the things that need to be said to each other in a spirit of love. Although that is true within the context of all relationships, it is especially true when we reach the threshold of transitional moments.
To encourage these conversations, I have made space on the calendar between now and my last week for coffee and conversations. Just follow the link and sign up for either in-person or ZOOM conversation. We can meet at church or at a location of your preference (let me know when you sign up).
I will be away on a previously planned vacation starting Friday and lasting until Saturday June 25. While away, I am grateful for the pastoral coverage provided by Pastor Nancy Connor.
I will look forward to waving to you once again on Sunday, June 26.
In Christ’s Light,
Pastor Walt