Jon's Appointment

Every year in preparation for the Annual Conference’s appointment of pastors in June, the local church and its ministers evaluate the ministry of its ordained pastors. During this process, the church and the ministers have an opportunity to continue or discontinue their appointment of ministers at the church. After much prayer and deliberation, and having consulted Greg Kennedy and Ava Berry (District Superintendent), I submitted my name as a candidate for reappointment. Since then, I have been offered a church and have accepted. As of June 13, 2007 I will be appointed as pastor of Westover Fellowship in Amarillo.

This has been a very difficult decision for Heather and me. I feel that my gifts and graces are a good fit for St. Paul, and I know they have been used here to make a difference for the Kingdom of God. At the same time, in order to develop as a minister, I need to be stretching and maturing my gifts in ways the role of Associate Pastor does not allow. Please know our departure is not a reflection of the people of St. Paul. We grieve the thought of leaving St. Paul. Since our first days here, we have been warmly welcomed and have felt at home. We have grown to love each of you very much, and we feel that our ministry and significant relationships are just beginning to burgeon. All of this makes our decision personally painful, and we cherish your prayers.

However, I truly believe God is working through this to make St. Paul and me healthier and more fit to fulfill the call of God for His church. For me it means applying the gifts God has given me and maturing them to strengthen the depth and integrity of the Church. For St. Paul it means greater opportunities for growth, fuller experiences in discipleship, and exploring more unique avenues of fulfilling the church’s mission. It means growing in and sharing the love of God in new and amazing ways. I prayerfully anticipate the variegated and powerful work of the Holy Spirit as St. Paul is enriched to reach new heights in God’s Kingdom.

Walking through the next two months together may bring some fear and trepidation, especially as we approach unknown and different circumstances. But I am aware of your integrity before God and take confidence in your faithfulness. As the Spirit continues to empower your steps of faith, God will sustain you, not just to get by, but to approach the transition with elated anticipation and certain victory.

“Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.” Psalm 31:24

Your friend in Christ,
JON