Let me begin by saying what an honor and privilege it has been to serve the First Presbyterian Church family and friends as your Parish Visitor during this season of pastoral transition. It has been deeply rewarding to renew long-standing relationships and build new friendships within a faith community that has been so beloved by me and my family for more than half a century. I am grateful to God—and to the leaders of this congregation—for the opportunity to give back, in some small way, to this beautiful body of Christ that has been such a loving and supportive part of my own journey of faith.
What I especially want to encourage you to remember is that this opportunity for ministry is not limited to this particular retired Presbyterian minister. This interim season of seeking new pastoral leadership is also a time for all of you to discover and grow in your own gifts for ministry and leadership at FPC.
We have been blessed with a rich heritage of strong senior pastors, but the church is so much more than the person who stands in the pulpit. The church is you.
As I go about the sometimes-daunting task of caring for a congregation of this size, especially in a part-time role, I am increasingly aware of how much I need the help of others in this ministry of care.
You are the hands of Christ—hands that rest on a troubled shoulder or help with a needed home repair.
You are the eyes of Christ—eyes that notice when someone is hurting or needs a word of encouragement.
You are the feet of Christ—feet that walk alongside others in their struggles.
You are the mouth of Christ—lips that offer words of prayer, comfort, and encouragement from the heart of Christ.
I encourage you to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself.
Please know that I am here for you as we all seek to share the love of God with his children—not only to minister to your personal needs, but also to encourage and equip you in your ministry to others. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me, whether for yourself, a fellow church member, or another friend in need.
The most effective form of evangelism is simply to show that you care, because Christ cares for you.
And as we enter a season when there is often a great deal of focus on our favorite “teams,” let us not forget the most important allegiance we have: Team Jesus.
T.E.A.M. — Together Everyone Achieves More.
Yours in Christ always,
Chan
