Thank You! (Final JPC Newsletter)

         April 15, 1996 was a Monday. It was also my first day as pastor of Cross Roads Presbyterian Church in Mebane, NC—my first congregation. I had completed seminary classes, passed the ordination exams, and moved my family to a town none of us had ever heard of until a couple of months earlier. I hadn’t even been through graduation. That event would take place several weeks later; and about all I remember of graduation was the terrible stomach bug I had. Sweating beneath my cap and gown, and oblivious to all the speakers and drama, I managed to sit for the duration of the ceremony, but just barely.

On April 15, 1996, I hadn’t been ordained, either. I was incredibly green. Indeed, I was prepared only by virtue of having completed classes and paperwork. Nonetheless, on the day when Caesar gets his due, I began trying to give to God what was God’s. So, I went to work. (I even wore a tie that day. That one day. Leaving off the tie—except for Sundays, funerals, and weddings—was a lesson I learned quickly and only too gratefully.)

         Over my career in congregational ministry, I, like exactly everyone else, never did anything perfectly. But by June 23, 2024, I think I had developed some competency at my pastoral vocation. If I had it to do over, sure, I’d do some things differently; but if I altered anything significantly, I may not have come to Jonesborough, TN. To be with you, Jonesborough Presbyterian Church. And that’s something I can’t imagine having missed this experience.

         From October 4, 2010, my first Monday at JPC, you have welcomed my family and me with grace, generosity, love, and good humor. With those same characteristic traits, we worked together, witnessing to God’s realm of grace. And when it was time, you released me to whatever it is to which God is calling me next. And while there are no words to offer adequate thanks—Thank You!

         As I mentioned a moment ago, not everything has gone as smoothly as we would have liked. For the most part, however, we’ve managed to squeeze lemonade out of the rough patches. And isn’t that the point? The faith communities God assembles are made up of human beings who are finite and fallible. We get scared and tired, and things go awry. And yet, by grace, through faith, we manage. We confess, forgive, heal, and move forward.

         Jonesborough Presbyterians, thank you for being YOU. Thank you for being welcoming, faithful, good-humored, and patient with me and with each other. God is apparent in you and real through you. Your witness in this community may not be the loudest. (We are, after all, Presbyterians!) That witness, though, is unmistakably bright, steady, and transforming. You, JPC, are blessed to be a blessing, and you are making a tangible difference in your community and the world. I’ve always said that Jonesborough does community well, and JPC helps to lead in that excellence. My prayer is that you seize that gift and pray for, work toward, and expect God to lead to you someone who will continue the good work in you. (Phil. 1:6)

         Marianne and I are overwhelmed at the outpouring of joy and gratitude you have expressed since I announced my retirement. The celebrations of June 22 and 23 will remain treasured memories forever. Thank you for the many, many cards, gifts, and other expressions of love. And when this danged Covid lets go of us, we look forward to seeing you around town. (How grateful we are that it waited until after the 23^rd to rear its head!)

The Lord bless you and keep you.

The Lord be kind and gracious to you,

and to others through you,

now and always.

         Allen