My new congregation voted overwhelmingly to call me last Sunday - a huge relief. But like every time of change, no matter how exciting, there is a tinge of sadness and, in this case a lot of sadness as I have to say goodbye to folk whom I've grown to love. When you share some of the most precious moments that life brings, from the joy of new birth to the sadness of bereavement relationships are forged that cannot easily be laid aside. However, it is time to move on difficult though that might be, time to follow God's call and use the energy and the gifts that God has given in a new place with a new people whom God has prepared. Who knows what marks will be left behind, what scars will be carried into the future? Only God knows the seeds that have been sown, the harvest that will be reaped and the healing that lies ahead. We are called, simply, to be faithful, no matter how hard that might be, to know that God's timing is always right.
Right now its difficult to look forward to the adventure that is waiting. There will be a right time for that. But first, there's a need to let the sun set on the work here and to know that in every ending is a new beginning.
Good luck in your future ministry. I enjoy your blogs very much
ReplyDeleteAndy McIntyre
Congratulations - I knew they'd love you! I understand it will be hard to move on from those close to you but those who are true friends will always be with you - wherever you are - Ayr, Inverkip or Australia! It may be a challenge moving on or even a risk, but you have to do what feels right for YOU. Good luck, I'll miss you loads! xx
ReplyDeleteMany congratulations and every blessing in the future.
ReplyDeleteCan you say where you're going yet?
FBL
So glad the future is clear for you...and absolutely know what you mean about the sadness of departure even as you embrace the new possibilities ahead.
ReplyDeleteBlessings on both parts of the process
Yes, where ARE you going? I dip in from time to time to see what you are up to & I'm intrigued to know since I haven't seen you for a while. Wherever you've been you've done a good job & have been loved; that will continue because you are you!!xx
ReplyDeleteGuys,
ReplyDeletethanks for all your encouraging comments. I'm going to Castlehill, a charge in the centre of Ayr.
i'll bore you with all the details as they unfold.
Exciting times!
I was very proud when you married us and even prouder when you baptised my son,It will be a sad loss for inverkip to see you go but know your going to get on great in Ayr,Keep in touch,Good luck and all the best for the future Amanda,Archie and Rowan McVicar xxx
ReplyDeleteAmanda,
ReplyDeletethe privelege was mine - and i will keep in touch as best i can.
x
Liz,
ReplyDeleteI am a member of Castlehill and really looking forward to having you as our new minister. Reading from your blog you are going to be sorely missed at Inverkip. I hope leaving isn't too upsetting.
A warm welcome awaits you at Castlehill.
Tracey
Tracey,
ReplyDeletethanks so much for your welcome. look forward to meeting you.
Liz, blessings and prayers during this time of transition. I recently moved for a new call and I know what you mean about both feeling sad and missing folks, but also the excitement and hope of the new parish and the future. Rest in the knowledge that God is with you in your goodbyes and your hellos.
ReplyDeleteThanks, bythesea. Lots more roller coasting to come.
ReplyDelete