“Where are the great preachers?” the noted pastor John Killinger was once asked. His response—“where the great congregations are.” I shared that quote yesterday at the church conference following your wonderful gift for Pastor Appreciation Month.
I don’t claim to be a great preacher but I do know that I am better in all that I do as your pastor by the affirmation, support and encouragement you so fully and freely give me. I count it a unique privilege and wonderful gift to find myself now approaching my second anniversary as your “interim” pastor. Some interims are longer than others and when I told Barbara Best those many months ago that I would help get you through four Sundays of Advent I could not have known that we would still be at it all these months later. I’m glad we are and your appreciation of me and Kathy is exceeded only by my appreciation of you.
Let me add, on behalf of all of us, a needed and appropriate word of appreciation to all those who contribute so much. Of course each and every member who make such a difference but also especially to Peggy, Risa, Cheryl, Ashley, the AV team and so many others who provide a significant ministry. Be sure to thank them when you get an opportunity as well.
So we move forward and we celebrate as we do. Thanks for such a special day and generous gift you gave me.
Brave Journey, Bill
