Greetings from the pastor’s desk . . . which, if you have not seen it recently, is a little messy! Since I have begun my ministry with you, I have made piles on the desk in the office —- fully intending to get through them all and to organize myself. Well, that hasn’t happened, yet! I have been glad to hit the ground running with a number of special worship liturgies as well as the Synod Assembly and Vacation Bible School. As the summer begins to settle in and the life of the church starts to slow down a bit, I am making my way down the list of things to do. You are at the top of that list.

I have been asked a number of times why I am here. As an interim pastor, I am here to help the congregation through the transition time from Pastor Betty to your new full time permanent pastor. The length of time I will be here depends on the call process. The call committee has begun the process of finding a new candidate for the position of pastor. You can be a part of that process by praying for the call committee and for the person that God has chosen to be your next pastor and by listening carefully to the recommendations of the committee.

The task of an interim pastor is not to make changes, but to maintain the congregation until the next pastor is installed. This time is one of discernment and reflection for the congregation. It is a time to make decisions about the future of the ministry in this place. It is a time to reflect on your history. It is a time to discern who God is calling you to be as the church.

I pray that together we will remain strong and vital in the community and that you will continue your support of Bethany Lutheran Church by worshipping frequently, giving generously, and volunteering your time to the ministry we share.

My family and I have appreciated your warm welcome and look forward to serving with you in these days of transition.

Pastor Paula