One Final Farewell...
until we meet again. :-)
It has been an honor and privilege serving as your pastor over the past six and a half years. And while I am officially your appointed pastor until June 30th, the baton of leadership will really switch hands tomorrow morning as Pastor Linda Vonck moves into the parsonage and office at Prospect.
With her move, you will begin to lean into her wonderful pastoral gifts even as she leans into the many gifts you have to offer to Christ's Church. I know that you are both in good hands...especially as you continue to be guided by the hands of the Holy Spirit.
In the months and years ahead, Pastor Linda will lead you in worship, visit you when you are sick or grief-stricken, nurture your children, officiate your family weddings and funeral. She will counsel you when you are hurting and water the soil of your faith as you grow into the likeness of Christ. At the same time, know that I will continue to pray (from a distance) for your ministry to the people of Dunlap, the greater Peoria area, our nation and the world.
I will no longer be your pastor, but I will always count you among my brothers and sisters in Christ. So keep "Growing DEEP in Jesus," and keep "Reaching WIDE for Jesus."
To God be the Glory...
<><,
Pastor Steve