Dear People of Ascension,

Our journey together began six and a half years ago when you, the faithful people of Ascension called me to serve among you as your Director of Faith Formation. In that time, we have shared many incredible moments of laughter and great joy while also our experiencing our share of painful tears and unimaginable heartache. Yet, through everything that we have encountered, we have continued to walk in faith, together.

And then four years ago when the Holy Spirit was no longer interested in entertaining my excuses for running away from God’s call, this community of faith once again excitedly committed to stand beside me on another venture – this time through seminary. Every step of the way you encouraged, supported, celebrated, and helped me to develop and share my pastoral identity. It would be an understatement to say that I am humbled by your confidence in me, and for the countless ways you have pushed me to endure this journey, all the while affording me opportunity after opportunity to learn and challenge myself in order to be a more faithful servant.

And now, my sisters and brothers in Christ, my heart is filled with unspeakable joy because God has graciously set a new course before us to continue serving God together, grow in our relationship, and further challenge what we have known as we follow the Holy Spirit into new territory. This new adventure is a celebration of our relentless God, the Body of Christ, and all that is possible when faithful people take risks, dare to dream, step up, and face challenges with faith, hope and courage.

So, I wish to take a moment as we begin this new endeavor and say thank you – for your trust, your confidence, your partnership, and for your love; both for myself and my entire family. Please know how grateful I am for every moment of our journey together and for all that is yet to come. I am honored to receive this call and serve alongside you as your new Associate Pastor, and so it is with deep gratitude that I wish to leave you with this prayer from the apostle Paul:

I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, and for this reason. I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers. I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him, so that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe, according to the working of his great power. (Ephesians 1:15-19 NRSV)

May this day and every day to come be to the great glory of God…

Pastor Tony