For those who haven't heard - this morning the Bishop of Huron announced that I am appointed the Director for Ministry and Mission for the Diocese of Huron effective May 1st. This means that I will be concluding my twenty ministry as rector of Trinity Church effective that date. Twenty years is a long time and during those years I have had some incredibly rich experiences and opportunities for the Lord. I have had the opportunity to laugh and dance with the congregation in good times, to cry and hold hands in the bad times. Even more exciting is that we have been on a spiritual journey together that has brought us all closer to the Lord Jesus. Letting go of these things and saying good bye to a congregation that has brought so much fullness to my life is not an easy thing to do and I am grateful to all those who, after church this morning, spoke to me words of kindness and appreciation.
I can remember heading off to my first congregation in 1977. It was mid summer when Cathy and I had to leave our little cottage on Lake Massawipp, Quebec, and head across the lake. (There were no roads to our cottage and the only way in and out was by boat.) We both loved that place and our time on the lake and it required a real act of determination to head off to Quebec Labrador. As we rode away in the boat I can remember thinking: "The Lord hates a double minded person - don't look back at the cottage." We didn't and we went on to one of the most exciting adventures of our lives.
I love everyone at Trinity deeply, but I believe God has called me to a new thing. I won't look back this time either. I am deeply honored that I have been chosen for this work of implementing the new Strategic Direction for the diocese and I look forward to the wonderful and exciting ways that the Lord Jesus will use me in this new phase of my ministry. I trust that you will keep me in your prayers just as I will keep Trinity Church in my prayers as they seek God's direction for their future and for the appointment of a new rector.
May the Lord bless us all.
God bless you on this journey forward.
ReplyDeleteTrinity has been richly Blessed to have had you this long Richard. I'm proud, glad, & very excited for you indeed. God's hand was, is & will always be upon you. The prize is ahead and not behind , may His Blessing chase after you & yours.
ReplyDeleteP.S.are you taking the snowblower?
Just learned that you are staying in Sarnia, so ishnay on the snowblower EH!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations Richard to your new position in the Anglican Church today with "Ministry and Missions".
ReplyDeleteWe are pleased to be able to continue to pray for you and your family.
Psalm 146 is our prayer for today.
May you have a blessed day.
The Best of everything for you, Richard, Cathy and your family. You have helped many people, and now you can help even more. Hugs and Love.
ReplyDeleteTammy (Tammbrey) and family.
Hi richard once again you move on in to what God has called you too. in 1977 I felt that move as does your congreation today. I hope that you still will keep blogging I started reading them about the first of feburay and have been blessed once again by your ministry.
ReplyDelete