...the announcement that our pastor is resigning.

The new pastor. Who started in September.

Who replaced the one who resigned LAST February. (What is it with February?? At least this one didn't tell me on my birthday but I think that was the week he told our Bishop.)

He's only been with us since September but due to a variety circumstances, he'll be moving back to Arizona in May.

He told me this morning because it was going to be announced at the end of service. We went into the kitchen during worship and he told me. I walked out of the sanctuary and into the ladies room to cry. Not because I'm sad that he's leaving (I am but not the way I was with our previous pastor who had been with us for nine years) but because I am tired. And I know what the search entails and the time and energy it requires.

But our church will survive. I believe that God has great things in store for us. I believe that this pastor was with us for this time for a reason - maybe while God prepared the next pastor for us or us for him. I cannot begin to know the mind of God, nor do I even attempt to. But I know he is working things for our good, even when the plan is unclear to us.

And so I will again pray and do whatever is necessary to facilitate this process. And if you are of the praying persuasion, please pray for us as well. We are headed down a difficult road, again. Please pray that our leaders would remain steadfast and unwavering in the face of this temporary difficulty and that the Lord would bring us the right person for our church.

Thank you!