Dear SCF Family, I have been fortunate to be a part of this church’s story during its early history to the present. First as part-time Music Director beginning in April 2002, and then asked to serve full time as Associate Pastor from January 2007 to the present. A lot transpired during those formative years. Through them all I was beyond privileged to work with Pastor Nancy Green. We forged a relationship that for me was more akin to serving alongside a “sister” than my “boss.” I consider working with her all those years to be the best in all my ministerial experience.
Upon further reflection of those years, many church family faces come to mind that I was fortunate to serve alongside in various ways. Many are still with us today, but a host of others have been inducted into that “great crowd of heavenly witnesses” spoken of in the Letter to the Hebrews. Each was a unique contributor to SCF’s ministry, both to the church family and to the wider world beyond our walls. And, like all the Old Testament personalities identified in Hebrews 11, who were part of the “great crowd” the Hebrew writer was referring to, each SCF’er, those still present and those gone from us, shared a common inner conviction regarding their relationship with God that propelled them to willingly give of their unique capabilities on His behalf – “by faith,” resulting in the what and where SCF finds itself today. We are blessed, because of their faithfulness, to experience the “fruit” from their seeding and watering labors the past many years.
The official and soon arrival of Rev. Kally Elliott on October 7 th as our new pastor marks the beginning of a “new chapter” in the SCF Story. No doubt you are looking forward to it as I am. Sunday, October 13th , will be her first time to lead our worship service. Hoping to gain some practical insights, Kally recently attended our September Worship Committee meeting and became acquainted with its members who will be right-hand workers to assist her in preparation and participation for worship services.
I personally believe when God raises up new leaders, He has also prepared them ahead of time with skills, training, and life experiences that are required for a particular assignment, both with understanding of what’s ahead for a “new chapter” in an organization’s life, and then, how to proceed. Her coming will also require that all SCF family members partner with her, using one’s particular gifts and interests in order to move forward towards a future that God has in mind for SCF.
As a natural part of “new chapters,” change is also one of its realities. During the entire month of October, I will provide as much transitional assistance to Pastor Kally as possible. On November 1, 2024, I will officially step down as full time Associate Pastor and transition to part time Music Director, overseeing the music program for worship services and special holiday events. Additionally, I will continue to assist the Scholarship Committee during this period. My office location, beginning November 1st, will move from its present location to upstairs in the Music Room. I will continue in this part-time capacity through December 31, 2024. What is to occur in 2025 is yet to be determined.
It has been a privilege to serve the SCF family these many years. Carolyn and I believe in SCF’s mission and always want to contribute positively to the church infrastructure, to the nurturing of relationships, and to the sharing of insights that help us all to grow spiritually in positive ways. Thank you for your unlimited love and support these many years.
Rob