July 2025 | The New Kid on the Block

“Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” - Romans 15:7

Have you ever been the “new kid on the block”? I have, many times. Sometimes it has been a painful or scary experience. In school,  walking into the cafeteria, not knowing anyone, and hoping that someone would invite you to join them.  I can feel the  butterflies now!  At parties, when the only one you know is the host, and they  are too busy hosting to hang out with you, so you end up lingering by the food, hoping to connect with someone. Sometimes at churches, when I have walked in not knowing   anyone, expecting to connect, I sat alone.  I left after the service without anyone even acknowledging I was there.

There have been other times, thankfully, when people did reach out, did connect, did invite me in.  In spite of being the “new kid on the block” people were open and welcoming.  That is what I have experienced with YOU!  I am now the “new kid on the block” with you!!  As a    newbie, it can be disconcerting, and I expect to get turned around a bit; not knowing people, not knowing things—different ministries and roles, where different rooms are in the building, and more.  Yet I trust in the compassion, love, and grace youi have already shared to get me oriented well.  What a wonderful church family to be welcomed into!  I am the “new kid on the block” and it is very, very exciting!  I am eager, anticipating that God is going to do some amazing things with our time together!

I would like to say “thank you” to everyone for a warm and inviting welcome, for making the experience of being the “new kid” something that feels great.  I’m writing this before I even arrive, but people have been reaching out over the past couple of months with information to help with the pastoral transition.  l  Lots and lots and lots and lots of  information.  I am grateful for the support and encouragement that was sent along with the information, as well as the grace in understanding my limits for absorbing  it  all  at once.  I am working on it all, I promise.  You have been helpful and kind, and it shows  the beautiful character of the congregation.  I am looking forward to ministering with you!

So far, I have experienced a faith family that has been open and accepting, kind and considerate, helpful and grace-filled, and that is very exciting!  It is my hope that you are also excited.  It is my prayer that you are also anticipating God moving powerfully among us and through us!!  I also trust that as we grow together, to know one another more, that there will be a swift shift from “new kid” to family.  Thank you for welcoming me!
 
Peace,
Pastor Sherry