Dear People of God at Gardens,
My relationship with you will end on Thursday, August 31. Having the opportunity to be your transitional minister for the last two years has been a blessing for me, and I pray for you as well.
August 20 was my last day in the pulpit. The farewell reception with food, fellowship, cards, gifts, was fantastic. Thank you!
Sunday Daris Bultena, our General Presbyter and Stated Clerk, led you in worship in preparation for the arrival of Pastor Jeff Colarassi, and his wife Jane.
In his message he reminded you that Gardens Presbyterian Church has a great future. His text was from the Apostle Paul’s Letter to the Romans chapter 12. Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of the mind, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect…”
Transformation, transitions, or just “change” can be uncomfortable and sometimes threatening or it can be exciting and life changing. I hope you will have an open mind as to how God will be working in and through as Pastor Jeff as he becomes your new leader. As Daris said, “Change is a good thing.”
Pray for your new pastor daily and let him know that. Attend the Thursday Prayer Group at 11 via zoom as you are able. Attend worship in person or via the internet. Pray for your dedicated staff, Lynda, Suzanne, and Cindy.
The Church Officer Nominating Committee will soon begin their task seeking Elders, Deacons, and volunteers. Pray for them and be open yourself to how God may be calling you to serve in a special way. Do not hesitate to say a good word about Gardens to a friend or neighbor. Better yet, invite them to church for worship or some other church-related event.
Finally, the financial reserves that have sustained Gardens’ ministry over the years are dwindling. At the end of last year, Session approved a “New Pastor Fund.” Close to 30,000 dollars were pledged and for those who made that commitment we say, Thanks!
Back then the Pastor Nominating Committee was sorting out “PIF’s” (resumes) anticipating that the day would come when the Holy Spirit would lead you to a new pastor. Well, that day has come!
If for some reason you were unable to pledge back then or feel you might be able to increase your commitment, I would ask you to do so. What better way to show your support for Pastor Jeff and reduce “the draw” from reserves than to do so now.
Put a note in the offering plate or call Lynda Hart in the Church Office indicating how you might increase your support for Gardens through the “New Pastor Fund.”
So, be open to new opportunities, pray daily, actively participate, give joyfully, and open your arms to Pastor Jeff.
Blessings abound!
Roger