Note: Memorial Service for Nancy Hill tomorrow, Friday, Sept. 3, 1 pm here at TUMC
September 2, 2021
Déjà Vu All Over Again! Return to Service…
I retired from active ministry on July 1, 2014. I had plans for retirement which included: a whole lot of doing nothing, learning Spanish, reading Shakespeare, travel, travel, travel. Early on it became clear that Ole and I needed to “get out” so we instituted Tuesday Adventures—basically walking a lot around town and the local trails. I managed three Spanish lessons, never got to Shakespeare (due to my addiction to mysteries), and yes, we have traveled. I did begin writing classes at Imprint Bookstore in Port Townsend and am 1/3 of the way in writing a mystery.
COVID came. I have found myself restless. Spiritually restless. I decided to offer Disciple Bible study at the church. Then the District Superintendent called.
Like many in the church, I have been praying for Pastor Brad and Dorothy and am deeply concerned for their health. I recognize the sadness that must come from an appointment that was thwarted with Covid and continuing health issues, and the decision to step down. After prayer and lengthy conversation with my family, I decided to say yes to become interim pastor of Sequim.
My ministry appointments began in Texas, and in two of those appointments, I was an associate youth pastor serving large churches. In Washington, I have served as pastor at Ocean Shores, Mill Creek Cedar Cross (similar in size to Trinity), as District Superintendent of the Inland District and Port Angeles UMC.
In 2014 at Annual Conference each retiree was given one minute to say goodbye. Here is what I said:
When I heard God calling me to ministry, like many, I said, “SORRY, wrong number.” God persisted. I responded, and God continues to hold my life and will not let me go.
I believe God invites us to a life of service filled with challenge, adventure, healing, love…..joy…..hope. I served my first communion as pastor at the top of Lost Mine Trail in Big Bend National Park, and my last in Port Angeles, nestled between the mountains and the ocean.
The God I recognize in the beauty of nature is the One who has haunted me in many encounters in scripture. There are times when the struggles of ministry can become intense—even painful, and we can say, “Why me?” The Holy Spirit sends us the courage to say, “What’s next!”
The message is simple: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, and strength. Love your neighbor as you love yourself…and all good things will be yours.”
I feel humble, ready to serve, aware of the challenge, and filled with love for this congregation as I accept the appointment to become Interim Pastor of Trinity.
Pastor Joey
Some Concerns that we have:
- Pastor Brad and Dorothy for Brad’s health issues.
- For those who continue to go through physical struggles, those who are dealing with cancer, or other health situations. For those who are emotionally feeling lost and alone.
- For those who haven’t been vaccinated yet; for all those who are ill from the Covid-19 virus; for those families who have lost loved ones to the virus; and for essential workers.
- For peace in our country.
- For Katherine Parker, missionary to Nepal.