Dear Friends,

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Greetings in the name of Jesus!  The months of June and July are times of transition.  We move from the season of Spring to Summer.  We are in the season of graduation, which marks the end of one school to either another or to a career.  In the United Methodist Church appointment changes usually occur during this this season. 

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We find ourselves in another transition as Pastor Amanda prepares to end her appointment here as our associate pastor and begin her appointment as the pastor of Christ Community United Methodist Church in Butler on July 1st. In many ways, her time with us feels too short. We had hoped to get to know her better and to share in ministry with her for years to come. At the same time, we recognize that the work of Jesus Christ extends beyond our church. Other needs, including churches needing pastors and the shortage of clergy, can lead to appointment changes, which is the case here.  We are excited that Pastor Amanda’s gifts of preaching and administration will be used in greater ways at Christ Community than they are here.

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It has become clear that receiving another appointed associate pastor is not an option for the foreseeable future.  As we look to continue serving Christ, our church and our community, the Staff Parish Relations Committee has begun advertising a part time youth ministry position.  This is our greatest ministry need at the current time.  We are praying that God will send us the right person to lead this ministry or provide a new way of directing this effort.

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Seasons of change are always challenging.  It may be simple as deciding which jacket or shirt is appropriate for changing weather.  It could be more difficult in life like managing a change in one’s health or family.  It could be a change in staff like we are facing as a church.  No matter what the transition we know that God is present and God will lead us!

That is why I am encouraging us to continue praying our Breakthrough Prayer this summer:

 

Loving God, breakthrough the busyness of our lives

so that we might stop to hear your voice,

discern where you are leading and

go in the power of your Spirit in Jesus' name. Amen.

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Later this summer we will be providing opportunities to share the breakthroughs we have seen God bring about in our lives, whether big or small.  I am looking forward to the new things God will do as we pray and discern together during this time of transition.

 

Blessings,

Pastor Keith