THE LAST NOTES
1,840. That’s the number. You are probably thinking, “This is odd. Why would Pastor begin with a number?” Since I first began in parish ministry, in August of 1985, I have written “notes” in every monthly newsletter in the congregations I have served. I did some math – 1,840. That’s how many “notes” I have written over the course of my ministry. These “notes” are the last.

To be sure, I was told a long time ago that “the ministry is a writing profession.” I concur. It is. These “notes” have not always been easy. It has been a challenge, at times, to come up with something to write about. Over the years, I have had very little feedback on this endeavor. I do know some of us have read my “notes” faithfully, monthly. The issues have varied from politics to faith; from devotional thoughts to personal; from “questions from the pew” (That was fun! It gave me some direction.) to a year of writing monthly thoughts on twelve significant Psalms (not that any of them are insignificant. They are all part of the inspired Word of God.).

What to say in these last notes? Simple. “Praise God from whom all blessings flow!”

In the rough and tumble of 34 years of being your Pastor the blessings have flowed from God.

When I accepted this call, I saw the potential to build a new church. That was always my dream. Faith
worshipped in, what is now, Grace Fellowship Hall from 1964 to 2002. Forty-two years. The original intent, when this congregation began, was to build a sanctuary. It took a long time. It happened in 2002. We have one of the most beautiful church buildings I have ever been in!

We broke ground on Sunday, September 9th , 2001. I will never forget that date. It was two days before 9/11. In the Spring of 2002 we dedicated the building. Our stain-glass windows have their own stories. The Risen Christ behind the altar was paid for by a few members who “chipped-in.” That is putting it mildly. As I recall, the cost of this initial stain-glass was around ten grand (don’t quote me on that.)

We wanted the three significant events in the life of Jesus. His birth. His crucifixion. His resurrection. His crucifixion was entirely paid for by one of my/our shut-ins who had the financial resources. His birth scene was paid for through fund-raising. Combined, I believe, our stain-glass windows cost north of $40,000. We can only imagine what their value is now. Beyond their monetary value, these windows are priceless! Every time we worship, the life of our dear Savior is visibly seen by us and all who enter into the house of the Lord. I will miss this beautiful church. But more than that I will miss this beautiful “church.” You! Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

Thank you for inviting me into your lives. You have entrusted to me your sorrows and joy, fears and doubts, dreams and hopes. As my pastorate has been long, our relationships have run deep. I love you. You will remain in my prayers. I will think about you often. Saying “good-by” will not be easy.
Keep the faith. Remain committed to Faith. Pray for your leaders. Pray for your new Pastor. God already knows who that is. Together -even though soon apart – we will “Praise God from whom all blessings flow!”

Love,
Pastor