When a pastoral vacancy occurs within our church denominational body, the bishop’s office helps guide the transition through prayer and support for the local congregation. The intentional partnership can be an exciting opportunity to welcome self-reflection and visioning for the ministry’s future. The uncertainty, however, also lends itself to heightened anxieties, and we must remain faithful that the Holy Spirit is active in offering care and guidance.

The Church of the Good Shepherd – Lutheran, Plainview, NY,  is successfully journeying through this interim period and has reached a significant milestone. The congregation council has commissioned members to serve on a Call Committee. These members review, interview, and recommend potential candidates to the board and congregation to serve as the parish’s next permanent pastor.

Once installed, members of the call committee will meet with the bishop’s staff to discuss potential leaders God may be calling to lead and serve the congregation in the future. All should respect that work of the committee is confidential as they review and meet with potential leaders who may presently be functioning in other ministries. Ultimately, the call committee will recommend a candidate to the council, which, if approved, would present the candidate at a congregation meeting for the entire membership to vote on the recommendation. That process may include opportunities for the candidate to lead worship and meet informally with congregation members.

Please join us and support the members commissioned to serve on the call committee. The members will be installed during the 10:15 AM worship service this Sunday, March 26. The 10:15 AM and 6:00 PM will be Healing and Anointing liturgies; the 8:00 AM service will be the standard semi-spoken liturgy.

Blessings,

Pastor Marc