A candle of intention is usually lit every Sunday before the pastoral prayers. Often the intention is a word or a thought that is reflective of the sermon theme. The candle of intention for Sunday, November 17 was “encouragement” and reflects Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonians. Who knew how important that word would be for all of us that day when the Search Committee had learned before the end of day on Saturday, that the candidate they had chosen had decided to pursue another area of ministry?
Sad and disappointed and frustrated were also words that were used to describe emotions of this hard-working Search Committee. Certainly a disappointment, but sometimes prayers do not get answered in the ways we expect them to. I believe this is one of those situations where we may not understand a disappointing outcome, but that may be because an even better candidate will be selected as your settled pastor.
Now more than ever, is the need to hold the Search Committee in our prayers as they decide on the next steps. It is important that we encourage one another and keep each other in prayer as well. Oh, and by the way, my plan is to stick around for the duration.
I am asking for your prayers as I take some needed time out. I will be away from the desk from November 26 – December 12. If you have pastoral needs during that time, please call or email the church office and leave a message, and someone will get back to you.
By the way, if you’re not aware of it, Christmas is coming! Randy Granger will be our guest preacher on December 1st and Scott Hays-Strom will be preaching on December 8. Search this newsletter and you will find my Christmas gift to you. ENJOY!
Blessings,
Donna
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