Friends:
For those who missed Pastors Ed & Carolyn's announcement this past Sunday, please click here to read a PDF copy of the letter announcing Ed's resignation from the Seattle Vineyard. Ed and Carolyn planted the church in June of 1987 and have pastored faithfully for the past twenty years. As Ed has noted in various discussions, he is not retiring but resigning - that is, shifting from work marked primarily by pastoring a local church into a wider field of ministry expressed in writing, teaching and coaching. We speak for untold numbers who have met on the corner of 42nd & Brooklyn over the past two decades when we say, with obvious understatement, "Thank you, and well done." You have given us a good foundation and we will purpose to build well.
A few key dates mentioned in the course of Ed & Carolyn's announcement:
Congregational Meeting - we're planning a fall congregational meeting for current members on Saturday morning, November 3rd, from 9am-Noon in the Vineyard sanctuary. The meeting will include a time to visit over breakfast, an opportunity to raise and discuss questions related to the pastoral transition, and some discussion around the year ahead, including plans, direction, and building-related matters. Childcare will be provided for this gathering.
Installation Service - installation of Karl and Gail as the incoming Senior Pastoral couple will take place at the Sunday morning service on November 18th (normal service time, 10am-Noon). This will take place within a regular Sunday service - i.e., there will still be corporate worship, a message, children's programs, etc.
Thank You / Sending Celebration, Friday evening, December 7th, 7:00 - we'll be throwing a party at which we can express thanks and appreciation to Ed and Carolyn, and also send them, with our prayers and blessings, into their new field of ministry. Details and 'proper' invitations will follow, but please reserve this evening on your calendars! If you are able to help with the planning for this event, or have something special you would like to contribute, please contact the Vineyard office ASAP.
Many thanks,
Karl
