THANKFUL * FAITHFUL * BLESSED

Dear Beloved brothers and sisters in Christ,

Grace and peace to you all. I am filled with gratitude, humility, and a heart full of joy as I

step into this sacred role as your new pastor. I am eager to journey with you through

seasons of faith, growth, and community.

It is a great honor to serve as your pastor. I am truly mindful of the trust and

responsibility that come with this calling. Each of you, with your unique stories, gifts, and

hopes, helps to shape the tapestry of our church family.

I look forward to learning from you, worshiping alongside you, and sharing in the

moments—both ordinary and extraordinary—that make up our life together.

Please allow me to share a brief glimpse into my faith journey and what drew me to this

congregation. Like many, my story includes moments of doubt and discovery,

challenges, and grace. I have served in various communities, witnessing God's love

transform lives, including my own. The call to ministry is something I take seriously; it is

driven by a deep belief that the church is a beacon of hope, a place of healing, and a

catalyst for justice in the world.

As I arrive here, I bring a dedication to really listening to your stories and dreams. I am

committed to transparency, compassion, and fostering a spirit of unity, even as we

celebrate the rich diversity among us.

Together, we stand at the threshold of new possibilities. My vision for our congregation

is rooted in Christ’s teachings: that we love one another sincerely, extending grace and

welcome to all who cross our path; that we seek to grow in faith, not merely through

words, but through actions that build up our community and bless the world beyond our

walls.

I envision a church that is open and curious, where questions are welcomed and where

all are encouraged to seek spiritual growth. I believe in the power of service—caring for

our neighbors, those within and outside our congregation, and responding to the needs

around us with compassion and courage.

To be your pastor is to enter into a relationship with you—not only as a leader, but as a

fellow traveler on the road of faith. I look forward to conversations over coffee, shared

prayers in times of joy and sorrow, collaborative projects, and moments of laughter and

celebration.

Please, do not hesitate to introduce yourself, share your story, and tell me about your

hopes for our church. I am eager to learn your names, hear your voices, and discover

what makes this congregation so special. Your insights and perspectives will help shape

our shared ministry.

Transitions are rarely easy; they stretch and challenge us. I recognize that my arrival

brings change, and change can be both exciting and intimidating. Let us dream

together. Let us pray together. Let us work and worship together, trusting that the Spirit

will guide and inspire us in every step.

Thank you for welcoming my family into your community. Thank you for your openness,

trust, and willingness to start this new journey together. I look forward to seeing how

God will guide us in the days, months, and years ahead.

May the peace of Christ dwell richly among us. May we be known by our love, and may

we shine as a beacon of hope in our community.

With gratitude and anticipation,

Rev. Barbara L. Whitlow