Beginnings

September is often seen as a time of "beginnings". Teachers and students return to school and there is a change from when they left in June. Teachers have new students and students have new teachers. This month, in the life of the Watkins Glen First Presbyterian Church, there will be a change. Five months ago I announced my plan to retire as of September 30. Time has gone by quickly and now September is here. There will be a change for all of us. The pastoral relationship we now share will end. But please be assured friendships continue.

We must walk by faith as we face this transition. Frederick Buechner is quoted: "Remember that faith is more of a process than a possession. Faith is not being sure where you're going, but going anyway. A journey without maps."

As you face the upcoming transition of pastoral leadership, you are called to walk in faith. By faith, the church will continue to be involved in a vibrant ministry. This church has been providing ministry for 197 years. That's a long time. And it will continue to do so. Have faith. Have faith in the pastoral call process. It can be frustrating because the process doesn't move as fast as you would like. But the process is not simply hiring a new employee for the church. It is realizing that it is God who calls and it is you who will listen. The process is guided by Jesus Christ, who is the head of the church, who provides you with all that you need to be the church.

Thank you for the privilege of being your pastor. I ask for your prayers as I move on to the next chapter of my life. Be assured that I hold you in my heart and in my prayers as you listen to God to lead you by faith. In deep gratitude for the ministry we have shared during the past eighteen and a half years.

In Christ,

Beverly