Since my last update regarding Session’s plans for assuring pastoral care, pulpit supply, and moderator coverage post Rev. Simon a lot has transpired. This correspondence provides a status of Session’s efforts to maintain some semblance of order and purpose as we transition from a pulpit supply arrangement (Pastor Sylvia Wilson) to a more stable yet temporary (12-month) contract call pastor with a focus on continuing our journey to find an installed pastor.
Hillside has received three new membership requests and there is a possibility of more new member candidates. New member candidates wishing to join our flock are Mr. & Mrs. Donald (Patricia) Robinson (Affirmation of Faith), and Mr. Denton Osborne (Affirmation of Faith). New Member classes are scheduled for November. We expect to have several baptisms in the coming weeks. God is ordering our steps and making us mindful of our real mission/purpose as Christians…to bring others into a meaningful relationship with God and his people. Job well done Hillside!
On August 19, 2018 the Session authorized a Contract Call Pastor search committee. Session set a clear path for the next contract call pastor. The individual selected will
- concentrate their efforts on inclusive and uplifting corporate worship,
- lead/moderate session and its ministries,
- assist us to understand the benefits of whole-church praying and listening for God’s word, and
- create beneficial community relationships as God would have us minister in the world.
This committee is composed of Session members Faye Fikes and Jasman Howell with Lelia Crawford representing the congregation. The search committee has been busy developing a job description, producing a timeline, selecting interview questions, and reviewing candidate resumes. We are hopeful the new contract call pastor will be onboard by the first Sunday in November.
Additionally, Pastor Wilson has graciously agreed to extend her agreement beyond September 30, 2018 until the contract call pastor is onboard. The Session is extremely grateful and appreciative of her leadership, preaching, and great spirit. She has given the Session and also the congregation much comfort, joy and a sense of stability during what could be rough patch for Hillside. We are blessed to have her gentle soul in our midst…AMEN!
Continue to pray for your Session. They need to be encouraged and to hear from you regarding your wishes as well as your thanks. They are leading by example as elder are supposed to do!
