Friends,

When I receive really big news, I often feel a wave of emotion. While I am riding that wave of emotion, I prepare for action. What are the next steps? What are the potential outcomes? What are the risks and challenges? Worry, excitement and fear cause the wave of emotion to turn into a massive swell that can propel me forward at rapid speeds toward a shore, where surely, I will dramatically crash along with the wave that kept me moving.

While I am initially incline to action, doing nothing is also fine and will suffice, even if it is just for a moment. So, let’s take a moment and break up that wave of emotion.

The big news is that our parish administrator for the past eleven years is retiring on April 30th. Sue Bentley is the longest serving member on staff, and every member of the Church has been served by her ministry, even if they are unaware. Sue is one of the first people at St. Luke’s that I spoke to when I began my ministry here in January of 2021, and she remains someone I rely on to hear my ideas, and to help me catch up on the often-nuanced dynamics of this parish. She is the one that answers the phone, the first to get e-mails, and let me know when someone is in need. Sue has been a friend to the Church and to my family through very scary and very joyful times.

As I ride the wave of emotions, the first thing I feel is gratitude for Sue’s ministry and friendship, as I am sure that many of you are grateful. Secondly, I am excited and joyful for the time that she will have focusing on the things that she loves. Did you know that she is an expert quilter and has even run a business out of her house? The last big emotion in my tsunami size wave of feelings, is the angst and excitement about the next chapter in the life of our congregation. We are getting a group together to help with the transition, there is much to do, much is unknown, but all will be well. Change is one of the few constants in this world. We can fight it, or we can try to handle it with grace.

I have no expectation that Sue is done with St. Luke’s. She is a Methodist, but is a regular at our parish events, especially the annual BBQ on the first Saturday in May. She is also our neighbor, living just two doors down the road.

Sue is the master of keeping the lights on, and getting things done. Soon, she will be busy with preparing to end her time with us as our parish administrator, hopefully by on boarding the next parish administrator. There will be time to be busy. You don’t have to feel everything at once. Take a moment and let Sue know that we are grateful for her ministry and her time with us.

Blessings,

Nick