Dear members and friends,
As most of you know by now, I will be retiring at the end of the 2021. As I’ve said to many of you on various occasions, I am retiring because I think it is time for me and for you to try something new. Nothing negative or dispiriting has happened that has made me want to bring our pastoral partnership to a close; rather, it feels to me like a relationship that has run its course and been very productive and faithful. The time is right.
I recognize, however, that all change is hard and sometimes a little frightening. To ease some of the fears you may be experiencing, I am presenting the road map for calling a new pastor. This information is straight out of a handbook that can be found at the PCUSA website. In the search box on the denomination’s website you can type the words “On Calling a Pastor, revised edition” and this and much more will appear. I hope some of you will take time to read the whole booklet, but included below is a simple chart that outlines the various steps.
Please know that you can ask me questions over the next five months about the process. I continue to give thanks for our shared ministry and for the generosity you continue to show me and my family.
Peace,
Bob
Note: COM stands for Committee on Ministry; MIF stands for Ministry Information Form; PNC stands for Pastor Nominating Committee.