Saying My Goodbyes Once Again

Yesterday, Sunday, was my last day as assistant minister of
Cupar Old Parish Church, in Cupar, Scotland. I have now com-
pleted a twelve month familiarization placement at the church.
During the past year I've attended probationary conferences.
studied Church Law, surveyed Scottish Church History, and
attended day-long conferences on a variety of topics. I have
just received my Certificate of Eligibility and am now consid-
ered a Church of Scotland minister. I am waiting to be called to
a specific charge someplace in Scotland. I have sensed God's
leading the past six years I've been here in Scotland, and ex-
pect God's continued leading in the years ahead.

Last November it felt great to get back into congregational pas-
toral ministry after being away for over five years. I enjoyed
getting back into preaching, leading worship, doing communion
services, conducting funerals, and making pastoral visits in
homes or hospitals. But most of all, I enjoyed entering into the
lives of the people of the church and they into mine. I grew very
fond of many, and I sensed the fondness of many for me. It has
been a wonderful year for me in Cupar and at the church. I grew
more in love of God, more aware of myself, and more involved
in the lives of people of the congregation.

And so when I closed my final prayers of the service on Sunday
I almost lost it. It really hit me hard that I was leaving people
who had become very dear to me. It wasn't any easier when the
congregation honored me at the end of the service and at a re-
ception after the service. My time here in Cupar has been a
very special year for me, and I am so grateful to God for the
time He gave me here.

But as I see one door closing behind me I see another one open-
ing before me. I leave with the blessing of the people I've been
with for this past year, and I realize that a new adventure is open-
ing up in front of me. I don't know where God is leading me, but
I do know that He is leading me into a new situation. I am start-
ing to realize that all of this is quite exciting. If you feel so in-
clined, I ask for your prayers as I receive my new orders.

Blessings to you and yours,