Candice's Comments

Transitions are times of growth and possibility. As we transition into a cooler season of the year, we also experience transition in the church. The annual meeting approaches on November 8 when we will vote on new officers and leadership for 2010, see a proposed budget for the 2010 church year, and decide on changes to the by-laws. We also find ourselves searching for two new staff members: a secretary and an organist.

It is a time of great expectations but also a time of increased stress. Will new leaders step up and hear God's call to serve? Will we commit ourselves to faithful stewardship to support the ministries we do together on behalf of Christ? Will the bulletins and Portrait and other services we have come to expect still be provided? Will we find a new organist who will continue to provide exceptional worship music?
Yes, transitions can be great times of stress. Whether it is employment, retirement, marriage, parenthood, separation by death or divorce, leaving home, starting school, or a host of other transitions, there is stress and uncertainty in the midst of the exciting possibilities.

We are seeing a wonderful example of this as we watch the trees this fall. As green summer leaves turn to autumn reds, golds, and russets, and then fall to the ground, there is transition. If the leaves could speak, they might say, "Oh woe is me; I don't like what is happening; I want to keep my gorgeous green glow, full of life on this tree. I don't want to die and fall to the ground."

But we know that transition must happen if new leaves are to sprout forth in the spring. A tree is only alive as it goes through the seasonal cycles. And seasonal cycles. And churches find their life and vitality in being open to the transitions they face. There may be times of stress and concern, but there is also hope and possibility for those whose trust is in God and not in themselves. Alone we can do nothing, but with God all things are possible.

We are not alone; we have one another and we are blessed by a God who knows what we need even before we ask. Together we will transition into the future God has for us in all its possibilities.

Blessings,
Candice