This summer marks a significant transition for our family. My husband Russell has served as associate rector for pastoral care at our church for fourteen years while also serving the children, teachers, and administration as the chaplain for our outstanding pre-school. As he transitions to a new ministry, it's been so moving to hear his last few sermons these past three weeks. I've been asked to post them by several people, so here is the link to the trifecta of sermons by Fr. Russell beginning with Trinity Sunday (May 30, 2021), followed by a powerful D-day message about Christ's victory (June 6, 2021), and ending with today's moving reflections on the Gospel message and Fr. Russell's final exhortations (June 13, 2021).
Endings may be bittersweet, yet we feel blessed and immensely grateful. We have another forever family in our church community that we will take with us wherever we go. We also know that endings are essential for new beginnings, so we're excited for all that lies ahead.
As Russ follows God's call to "a new thing," we know the promise spoken over our family years ago will continue to be fulfilled in God's perfect time and way. As we follow God — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — we thank Him for calling us as a family to be "oaks of righteousness, His planting for the display of His splendor" (Isaiah 61:3).
Imperfect as we are, we acknowledge our absolute reliance on Him for everything, and we are grateful to know that our future ministry and lives are in His hands. We have a few more weeks, still, with our church family of 21 years and will cherish every conversation, prayer, and hug.
Thank You, Lord, for Your goodness and love. We are blessed.
Joyfully,
Mari
See, I am doing a new thing!
Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
Isaiah 43:19a
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