From the Interim Senior Pastor

“Therefore since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith…” (Hebrews 12: 1-2a, NRSV)

Often these words are interpreted to refer to the ‘witnesses’ who have gone before us into the Church Triumphant, to which they certainly apply.  However, this past week I saw many of our All Saints family functioning in that way-being a cloud of witnesses testifying with their work, words and presence, to their faith in Jesus Christ.  I saw it in how you pulled together to help with arrangements for a funeral celebrating the life and victory of one of our beloved members.  From the day the death was announced until many hours after all the funeral luncheon guests had departed, All Saints folks worked together tirelessly, and with joy in serving.  It was most impressive and commendable.  I have seen it in the generous outpouring of support for our Angel Tree children, as well as for needy family’s right here in our congregation.  It is how we envision the church functioning as Jesus intended it to function.  People who might or might not normally have a lot in common in the world all came, worked, stayed, prayed, comforted, welcomed, fed, cleaned, witnessed.  I pray those who shared in this inspiring experience will be able to bear it in mind in the days and months ahead-always striving toward that goal of working together as one body, one Spirit in Christ.

Please accept my prayers and gratitude for each of you during this holy season.  My family and I deeply appreciate your support and caring these past months.  We know these are not easy times for God’s people here at All Saints.  And yet, looking back at many other such experiences through the eyes of the Bible, we see that often God’s people journey through dark and struggling times, trusting that he will bring us through them into the place he wants us to be next.  In early 2010 we will begin to ask ourselves to reflect on that exact question.  Given where we have been, where we are now, and how God has equipped us to be the hands, feet, eyes and hearts of Jesus in this place, what is next in God’s mighty plan?    It is a big question.  It has many facets.  But taking the time to think and pray over the answers will provide you with the best information in searching for a new pastor who will be a good fit for your mission.

On Sunday, January 24, 3:00 PM, we will be holding another Transition Event-to help us identify and discuss our ‘Norms’.  Norms are the unwritten rules by which any group of people or organization really operate.  The event will cover our ‘norms’ regarding many aspects of our life as a congregation-roles of men and women, children, attitudes toward clergy, the building, money and so forth.  Bring a light snack to share if you can, but please make the effort to be there regardless.  It is one of the most critical parts of the process, and one which leads to a clearer understanding of the character of the congregation.  Hope to see you there!

May 2010 bring you the richest of God’s blessings-and the greatest of opportunities to serve Him!

Sincerely