For those who were unable to be in worship with us on Sunday, I want to share an important announcement that I made with you.
I am happy to announce that I will be returning to New Life in June! However, I am returning with a new, surprising additional responsibility. Beginning June 1st, I will not only be the pastor of New Life but I will also be the Associate District Superintendent of the Northeast District.
The Rev. Tom Bell has been our District Superintendent (DS) for the past eight years. Tom is retiring this year and we will receive a new DS in June, I will be working with the new DS.
Like everyone else, the Annual Conference has been struggling with finances. As a result, we are looking at new ways of supporting local church ministry while also decreasing staff and costs at the conference level. So beginning in June, Dale Cohen, whom many of you know because he has preached here at New Life but most importantly because he has worked closely with us as our Natural Church Development coach, will transition out of the role of Director of Connectional Ministries and will be appointed in June as our new DS. I will serve as a part-time Associate DS.
So what does that mean for New Life? Quite honestly, most of you will not notice a bit of difference. I will still preach on Sundays, be at meetings on Tuesdays and teach Bible study on Wednesdays. I will still be available for counseling and to visit when needed. You will still be able to reach my on my cell if you need me. However, my office hours will decrease by about 10 hours a week. Dale will be working with me and the Staff/Pastor Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) to ensure that this congregation is not negatively impacted by the changes and to address any problems as they come up. One option that we are considering is the appointment of a part-time associate.
You can read more about these changes by clicking here to read the Bishop's announcement: Bishop announces changes in the Cabinet for the coming year .
For those who want more details, you may contact any member of the SPRC members who can answer some of your questions. At our next church council meeting, we will go into more details on the very positive financial impact of this change on the congregation. And, I am, of course, willing to talk to any of you about this change. Your SPRC members are:
