Post date: Sep 30, 2013 12:44:21 PM
To the people of God at Bethel, Jamestown,
I have now been among you for a few short weeks, and appreciate starting to get to know many of you by name. I have attended my first council meeting as your pastor. Please know that your council is a dedicated group of Christian members of Bethel who earnestly desire the best for Bethel and its future. It is fair to say that these are difficult days, given the challenges that face us.
It is also true that there is much dedication to Bethel and its ministry. I love leading worship here on Saturdays and Sundays. The rejuvenated choir and the bell choir have inspired me as we worship together. I hope that the Sunday school can get a firm start even with smaller numbers. The two minute blessings in worship tell us of the wonderful ministries happening here. Bethel is active.
It will take some time for me to know all of you by name. I ask for your patience as we get to know each other in a new way. Please remind me of your name when we meet.
I still have some primary goals as your Intentional Interim Pastor. I plan to work together with your council in joint leadership. I will be listening closely as I meet each of you to hear of all the ways Bethel exists as a community of God's people. I will do my part as your current pastor to help you make the crucial decisions that lie ahead.
Bethel is one of four congregations included in the Together In Ministry team. Their work is important and crucial in assisting Bethel in the days ahead. Chris Prinzi and Paul Gutzmer have dedicated themselves to the work of this team on behalf of Bethel. They need our thanks and support.
I remain available to you for any pastoral need. You may contact me at the church at 716-661-9050 or by email at pastoralananderson@gmail.com.
Yours in Christ,
Pastor Alan