One of my favorite contemporary theologians is Father Richard Rohr. When it comes to our relationship with God, and God’s trustworthiness he writes:

“Your life is not about you; you are about Life. You are an instance of a universal, and even eternal, pattern. The One Life that we call 'God' is living itself in you, and through you, and as you!

"This realization ... is a monumental shift in consciousness. ...You have never been separate from God except in your mind. ... Henceforth, your very motivation and momentum for the journey toward holiness and wholeness is simply immense gratitude – for already being there!” (just this, p.45-46)

God has been leading Christ Church through a period of change, and throughout this journey we remember that God is living in us, and through us as we faithfully make the journey toward holiness and wholeness with gratitude. Embracing this season of change, standing on the Trustworthiness of God I offer the following update on two staff changes at Christ Church:

Pastor Peytyn . . . On Announcement Sunday, April 27, we learned of Pastor Peytyn’s new appointment to Fulford UMC. Pastor Peytyn has blessed us through her effective ministry among us, and she will be a blessing to the Fulford community. On June 1, 10am, we will show our appreciation for Pastor Peytyn’s ministry and honor her at a reception in the Fellowship Hall. June 1 will be Pastor Peytyn’s last Sunday at Christ Church. In this season of Christ Church’s life, the decision has been made not to receive a new associate pastor. The Staff Parish Relations Committee is hard at work discerning the staff needs for Christ Church and securing appropriate leadership. 

Jeff McNeil . . . Jeff, Director of Operations, has announced his retirement effective May 16. Please see his letter below. We are thankful for Jeff’s ministry among us over the years, and with gratitude pray for him and Rene as they begin this next chapter of life. The Staff Parish Relations Committee is hard at work reviewing Jeff’s responsibilities and creating positions that care for the work Jeff performed with excellence.

As ministries are cared for and positions are filled, we will communicate details with the congregation. Until then please pray for your Staff Parish Relations Committee, the Church Council, the staff, and those who call Christ Church home as we embrace God’s presence in us, and through us, faithfully making the journey toward holiness and wholeness with gratitude for our trustworthy God! See you in church.

Through Christ,

Pastor Doug