The church of Jesus Christ is constantly changing. Our church is changing as well. Babies are born. Children grow up. People commit themselves to one another. Loved ones and friends die. Newcomers join our community and our church. Others leave, moving on to new places and new opportunities. It is important that we recognize these times of change.
Today we say farewell to one who is leaving our fellowship.
On Nov 7,2006 this congregation called Rev Steve Ranney to serve with us as pastor. Today that call comes to an end.
Prayer
In your world, be present , Lord.
In this congregation, be present Lord.
In this community, be present , Lord.
In this presbytery and the whole church, be present, Lord.
In the homes and hearts of all your people, be present, Lord.
For work begun but not completed, Lord, have mercy.
For expectations not met, Lord, have mercy.
For wounds not healed, Lord, have mercy.
For gifts not shared, Lord, have mercy.
For promises not kept, Lord, have mercy.
For friendships made, for joys celebrated and for times of nurture and growth, thanks be to God!
For wounds healed, expectations met, gifts given and promises kept,
thanks be to God!
For our fellowship in Jesus Christ, and for the love of God which has sustained us, thanks be to God!
The Dissolution
Do you, the members of St. Mark Church, release Rev. Dr. Steve Ranney from service as your pastor?
Do you, Rev. Dr. Steve Ranney, recognize and accept the completion of your ministry with this congregation?
Closing Prayer
No comments:
Post a Comment