A New Year’s New Beginnings in Joy

Today

1/1/2021

“It seemed good to us….” (Acts 15:25a’)

Dear Ones in the Beloved Family of Faith,

Effective today, Friday 1 January 2021, I am officially serving full-time as pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Winchester and Portland, IN where both congregations have affirmed the call together for shared pastoral leadership with one another and me. A new year of new beginnings in the Lord beckons me anew to faith-filled obedience in ordained ministry — “for the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.” (Romans 11:29)

Acts 15:25a (NASB)

“it seemed good to us, having become of one mind….”

This month marks sixteen years of service for me in east central Indiana as a member of Whitewater Valley Presbytery whose commission on ministry (COM) has approved the churches’ joint covenant in mutual agreement. New opportunities and expectations engender renewed hopes and aspirations amidst the dangers and crises of the current times we are facing together in these latter days.

“Then it seemed good to the apostles and the elders, with the whole church….” (Acts 15:22a)

Alongside each and everyone called to this mission in ministry with others in community, I endeavor to remain steadfast, standing firm under the mercy, moving forward in faith together toward advancing further the reign of our sovereign Lord in our midst. Blessed by providence with provision in perseverance, we proceed as God almighty presides over us and our progress through this present pilgrimage.

Acts 15:28 “For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay upon you no greater burden than these essentials

Praying in the new year ahead, continually lifting others up together gathered before the throne of God’s healing grace, I rejoice in the Lord renewing our rededication to each other as the Spirit renews our fellowship and commitment to one another in Christ. The Spirit of Jesus is with, in and among us! Thanks and Praise be to the Lord our God Who alone is worthy to receive all blessing, honor, glory and power unto the Ancient of Days.

A Joyous and Prosperous New Year of Blessings to you and yours!

In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — above all — Praise Adonai

Amen