Preparing for a temporary goodbye
June 2018 Newsletter Article
As hard as it is to believe, June is going to be my last full month at First Christian Church before I temporarily depart for my government sponsored camping trip. In the two months since my deployment was announced Lily and I have been overwhelmed by the support and prayers that have been offered on our behalf. That support was evident two weeks ago when 18 members of this congregation traveled to Scott AFB, IL to take part in my promotion ceremony. Your presence touched the leadership of my unit. Thank you to everyone who was able to make it.
The support has also been evident in the understanding and flexibility that has been necessary as I work around my required pre-deployment training. In addition to my normal drill weekends, last week Lily and I traveled to Orlando Florida to participate in the Air Force Reserve Yellow Ribbon pre-deployment family training event. It was designed to help spouses and families connect to the resources they will need to get us through the time of separation.
The truth of the matter is that this congregation is the greatest resource we could have ever dreamed to have. God has blessed us with a loving and supportive family of Disciples who have been praying for us throughout the years. As I depart, it is a relief to know that not only will lily be cared for but also the work and ministry of this congregation will continue without skipping a beat.
My last Sunday in Dexter before the deployment will be June 24. While I am away the preaching will be done by the elders, members of the congregation, Jeff Long and Bobby Garner. If you feel called to participate in this preaching by sharing a message, please contact Larry Thompson or Debbie Stidham. Pastoral care will be provided by the shepherding elders with Larry Thompson, Bobby Garner, John Harwell, and Penny Ross-Corona on call for emergencies.
While I am away I will stay in contact as best I can via Facebook and email. Thank you again for everything you have done to make this transition process easier. I appreciate everyone in this congregation and give thanks for the chance to be a small part of your lives. You will all be in my prayers during the next six months.
