Dear friends in Christ,
On Thursday, I was introduced at Hilliard United Methodist Church as their next senior pastor. Bishop Jung has not communicated the date of my appointment change, but typically a pastor’s last day is on June 30.
I am feeling many different things about this news. First, I am heartbroken at the thought of leaving a congregation that I love dearly. I believe that we are a very good fit for one another and I hope you believe that I have been helpful and effective in serving as your pastor. I look forward to serving and ministering together with you for our time that remains, and I plan to make the most of it. The fact that our church voted nearly unanimously to move to a part-time pastor for financial reasons does not change the fact that this one really hurts. I have already begun to grieve our separation but will continue to stay grounded with Grace for the time that remains, and I hope you will too.
What awaits me? Hilliard UMC provides a parsonage, so I will be moving into local church housing for the first time. However, the church housing is located within walking distance from my son’s home. My granddaughter Piper had already been signed up for the church’s preschool this fall before I got the call in early February, and I will be delighted to be serving where she is learning. It will be meaningful for me to have her “Poppy” sharing the children’s message with her on Sunday. I will be leading three different Sunday worship services (both traditional and contemporary) and coordinating a larger staff team, including an associate pastor to mentor. Their congregation is facing some very serious challenges and I am hopeful that God will guide my steps to assist them.
Please pray for me in this transition as I continue to pray for you. Please also pray for your new pastor and for Bishop Jung and his cabinet as they discern who that pastor will be. Our superintendent, The Rev. Dr. Suzanne Allen, will be seeking a pastoral profile from our leadership team to help with selection. She has already been in communication with our Leadership Team Chair, Dr. Jim Vance. I am sure he would welcome hearing from you, sharing the qualities and gifts you would value most in your next pastor.
Yours in Christ,
Pastor Steve
