Celebrations and Goodbyes

May is always a time that brings a sense of completion. Another school year down. Maybe soccer and other sports seasons are wrapping up. Confirmations are happening. Graduations are coming to mark milestones and accomplishments.

Including my own.

The last two years of internship have been a part of my Master of Divinity, which I have completed. All the assignments have been submitted. All the logistics and details have been finalized. Regalia has been picked up. Everything is done. Now is the time for graduation … and saying goodbye.

My last Sunday at Prince of Peace is June 1.

Words can only say so much.

None of this would have been possible without the prayers and support of this congregation. Honestly, I was still not entirely decided on this whole pastor thing when I started. I thought God was calling me to this … but we had to see. I remember stepping into the building for the first time: “God, this seems where you want me…but let’s take it step by step.” But everyone here has been welcoming ever since I walked into the church as a nervous intern. Everyone allowed me to grow and become the pastor I was called to be.

I can’t help but say thank you: thank you for your kind words and honest feedback over the last two years. Thank you for the conversations and chances to get to know many of you. Thank you for the patience you gave me as I figured things out. Thank you for many things that words cannot describe. You all have a special place in my heart as you held me in this part of my journey.

I hope I can see you before I leave. Stop by my office or say a word on Sunday morning.

I do not have a call yet. This summer will be filled with interviews to see where God leads me. You all will be kept in the loop when a call happens, but your prayers are always appreciated in this time of where God will lead me.

It is a bittersweet goodbye, but God is guiding every step of the way as God does with every one of you. You have my prayers and blessings as you go on your way.

God’s love and peace to you,

Vicar Jennie