Candee Calling- August 5th

Dear Friends,

As we begin to adjust to the news that Pastor Nate is leaving, we’ve begun the grieving process. Currently, we’re dealing with anticipatory grief, knowing that the day will come when he’s no longer here, no longer our lead pastor. Anticipatory grief is a gift in that it allows us to prepare for the actual loss, anticipate or imagine what that loss will entail and gradually, bit by bit, take in the reality of the loss. A 30-day notice of leave taking is beneficial for more than one reason as we also have time to say our goodbyes. Some of you have already expressed your thanks and farewells to Pastor Nate through calls, texts, cards, and emails. Keep those coming and know that there will be a day of celebration and farewell on August 15th, his last Sunday with us.

As the month of August unfolds, know that it will be an incredibly busy month. As we prepare to say goodbye to Pastor Nate, we will also say goodbye to Marilyn Wahlstrom, Interim Director of Traditional Worship and Music. Her last Sunday with us will be August 29th . We are so grateful for Marilyn sharing her talents with us and pray that she will enjoy many years of retirement. Yet, as we say our goodbyes, we are pleased to say hello to Melissa Whitman, Director of Children, Youth and Family Ministry. How fortunate we are to have Melissa joining our RLC family. Please give her a warm and sincere welcome!

Magnolia Mua, our administrator, will be taking some well-deserved and much needed vacation time from August 5th – 15th. The office will be staffed with volunteers during the time Magnolia is away. As you stop in to say goodbye to Pastor Nate, thank the volunteers for their service, too! We appreciate all that our volunteers do and give so that the church can function at its best.

Lastly, I, along with all our staff, ask for your patience and grace during this time of transition. There are literally, many moving parts and unknowns as we move forward, still amid a pandemic. We do hope to have an interim pastor assigned to us early in September but until that happens, know that the current staff, the council, and the SPA Synod will provide guidance, leadership and support. With God’s help, we will continue to carry on the work of Jesus Christ throughout all seasons, places and times. To God be the glory!

Peace,

Pastor Candee