Thursday, January 18, 2018

Thank You!



I am filled with gratitude; I claim the beautiful words of the apostle Paul as my own, “I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you.” Since the Summer of 2005 when I started my service as Executive Presbyter I have been abundantly blessed. My particular work within our common ministry has been meaningful and challenging. I have grown and learned so much. I will forever carry in my heart the abiding relationships that blossomed over these years. I will be forever grateful for the opportunity I have had to serve our Church in this unique and special way, in this very special and gifted Presbytery. These years have deepened my love and commitment to our Presbyterian Church. Thank you!

While I am convinced the future is bright and there are exciting, new opportunities coming for our Presbytery, it is time for me to step away from my position as the Executive Presbyter. I am delighted to announce that I will be serving as the transitional pastor of our Lower Marsh Creek Presbyterian Church in Gettysburg. My last day of active service as the Executive Presbyter will be March 15, 2018.    

There are countless reasons why, at this time, this is a good and appropriate change for me. I hope, also, this creates a good opportunity for the Presbytery. Indeed, I am earnestly praying that my feeling that this is a calling from our Lord is accurate and true.

Obviously, since I am not leaving our Presbytery, this creates a bit of a complicated situation. Thus, while the Lower Marsh Creek congregation will continue to be involved in and abundantly supportive of our Presbytery, I personally will not be involved, in any way, in the ministry of the Presbytery for at least two years after the installation of your next Executive Presbyter.
  
Grace and Peace in Christ!


Mark