Being the Church is Relational

We are relational beings. It’s written into our DNA. Being in relationship isn’t just what we do – it’s who we are. So it’s not at all surprising that relationship so profoundly influences what it means to be the church. First Congregational UCC is in the midst of a transition time because Pastor Diane retired, and the relational ripples of that reality continue to spread across the life of the congregation. The ways in which you relate to her and to each other have changed. What it means to be church together is now in flux. We find ourselves in a period of time when the ground is shifting beneath our feet. What was has come to an end and what will be has not yet taken shape. And it is important to remember that this is not simply a time to get through as quickly as possible. It is not something that has gone wrong and needs to get “fixed.” This is an opportunity to learn and grow. It is an opportunity to experience the presence and guidance of God’s Spirit in new ways. And because we are relational beings, all of this will happen within the context of being together. We do not have to face these days alone. Indeed we cannot do so. Together we will discover the ways in which God is moving in us and through us. Together we will discover new ways of being church never before dreamed of. Together we will reclaim old ways of doing things that still speak powerfully to who we are today. Together, with each other and with God, we will become the church God is calling us to become. Thank you for the remarkable opportunity of being your Transitional Pastor in such a time as this. I am honored by your trust. I am excited by the possibilities.

- Pastor Roger
(keeping my feet firmly planted in the flow)