A final note from Pastor Stacey

Dear friends,

May 2018

I’ve been procrastinating about writing this, my last article for The Gleam. Saying good-bye is not easy. For the past five years we have journeyed together. We have shared challenges and victories, struggles and celebrations. We have laughed together and wept together and we have worked hard together. A few sentences cannot possibly contain my gratitude, to you and to God, for leading me here.

When I first received Bishop Devadhar’s appointment to FUMC, the letter of appointment listed some tasks to accomplish. One was “establish financial stability.” I had no idea the significance of that phrase until shortly after I arrived and learned about the extent of the church’s financial challenges. But, thanks be to God, we took on the challenge and you responded with determination, creativity and energy. You encouraged me when I felt over- whelmed, and together, we took the first steps towards the goal of sustainability for FUMC.

You are a strong congregation, strong enough to take risks for the sake of the ministry and mission of Jesus Christ. There are challenges ahead, as you look to remodel the building for ministry in coming decades, but you have the resources, the faith and the presence of God – all that you need for another new beginning.

This congregation is a leader for social justice in the city of Melrose. You are known for taking bold stands and for opening your building to the LGBTQI community, to those working for racial justice, to immigrants. You have welcomed the community in times of sorrow and crisis. You care for children and families, for the young and for the elderly. You are generous in every way.

Soon your new pastor will be here. I trust that you will welcome Travis and his family warmly. I encourage you to receive with gratitude the gifts and graces that he brings to share with you.

After July 1, I will be glad to hear news of how you are doing, but I will no longer be your pastor. Your concerns and celebrations, your joys and your sorrows, your struggles and your victories, will be shared with Travis. With him, you will travel in new directions and on new adventures.

My experience at FUMC is a part of me forever. I am a better person because of the time I have spent with you. Indeed, my faith is deeper and I am a more focused follower of Jesus Christ because of my time with you. Thank you.

In Christ,

Stacey