Candee Calling… Dec. 28th

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Greetings to each one of you as we begin a New Year! However you “ring” it in – whether it is watching TV and counting down the seconds as the ball drops or celebrating with a kiss and glass of champagne, may 2022 be a year filled with peace, health and blessings for all.

As each year winds down, it’s customary for me (as it may be for you), to take stock of where I’ve been, what I’ve accomplished and what I would like to do in the future. As 2022 marks the beginning of a new decade for me, the words from Psalm 90:10 are ever before me, “The length of our days is seventy years or eighty if we have the strength……..they quickly pass, and we fly away.” (NIV) As someone who has worked as a nurse, chaplain and bereavement counselor, I know how quickly life can change. Life is fragile and unpredictable. We’re never guaranteed another minute, hour or day. And as the poet, Mary Oliver reminds us, we have one wild and precious life to live.

Having spent much time in prayer and discernment this past year, I hear God telling me, “It’s time.” It is time for me to retire from the ministry I’ve come to know and love for the past 25 years (15+ ordained) and, it is time for me to say goodbye to you as I take leave of my position as the Pastor of Congregational Care at Redeemer Lutheran Church. This decision has not been made lightly nor in haste but most importantly, it has taken place in holy conversation with God. God knows how much I’ve come to know you, love you, and serve you these past five and a half years. I’ve been honored, humbled and so grateful for the time we’ve shared. Thank you for calling me and granting me the privilege of serving as your pastor. My last day at Redeemer will be on Sunday, January 30. I’ll be preaching at both services and taking some time to celebrate in between. Please join me in giving thanks to God who brought us together and makes all things possible!

With gratitude,

Pastor Candee