Dear Church~By now many members and friends of Our Savior's have received a letter via good old fashioned snail mail informing you that the time has come for me to say goodbye. It has been an amazing 13 months! I have thoroughly enjoyed working, worshiping and serving alongside you during this time.
Usually an interim pastor stays with you until the future permanent pastor has been called and you know the date of the new pastor's arrival. However, in this case some special considerations have come in to play.
Over the last few months I have been engaged in many conversations, prayed much and sought to discern God's call for me. The result is that I have been led to accept a call to the St. Paul Area Synod as the Bishop's Assistant for Vital Congregations, Vital Partnership. My term will begin on October 13. So my last Sunday with you will be September 28.
Though the call committee's work is not yet completed, they are in the midst of second round interviews. Within a short time you should know the results of those interviews. Whether a specific candidate has been clearly identified and the call process moves forward quickly, or if more names and more time are needed, rest assured the Spirit is working in and through the process to lead you into the future God has ready for you.
During the intervening time between my departure and the arrival of your new full time settled pastor, you will be in excellent hands. Pastor Dawn Alitz is an exceptional Children, Youth and Family Pastor and she will continue to serve you well. Becky Hulden, your Parish Nurse is one of the most outstanding professionals I have ever worked with. She will continue to assist in providing pastoral care to members.
Retired Pastor Keith Lentz, a former staff member here at OSLC and one who has done interim ministry in the past, will share worship leadership and preaching with Pastor Alitz and work with your parish nurse to cover pastoral care needs. In addition Pastor Lentz will oversee, along with the Church Board, many of the administrative needs of the parish.
Beyond these people you also have an incredibly gifted office staff in Kathy Newton and Kristi Hanson. Chad, Darla and Jane keep the youth and CYF programs humming. Jane, Michael, Marlene and Sharon inspire your worship. Gregg and Gilo keep the place operating. All of these folks along with a host of volunteers working to support and encourage the life of this faith community mean OSLC will continue to thrive!
Thank you for your hospitality this year. Thank you for your ideas, your hard work, for your wonderful spirit and for your patience. Most of all, thank God for you!
