Over my career in ministry I have been in the position to leave several communities that I have deeply loved. And while each departure brings a certain amount of stress, I have found it to be true that if the last days and weeks are used intentionally then I can set the congregation or organization up for success. Therefore my primary focus in ministry at this time is leaving well.
To me leaving well looks like creating opportunities for reflection so we can learn from our shared ministry, equipping and empowering others to carry into the future, and giving permission for new leaders to offer up new ideas that are grounded in the mission and vision of this place. It also looks like dwelling in abundant gratitude for this season of life together. Ultimately, leaving well takes effort and energy. It’s not a time to simply coast to the finish. Therefore, this season has been busy!
So far I have arranged for worship leadership and emergency pastoral care over July and August. Pastor Amy Diller-Guida, who is living in Huntsville on leave from call, and Pastor Dennis Fakes, retired from St. Mark’s, have agreed to fill these gaps until the Bishop assigns an interim in September. The Ministry Model Task Force has submitted its report to Council and it has been received with gratitude. The report makes a series of recommendations that seek to improve how authority, accountability, and leadership are expressed and shared, how leaders are properly equipped and empowered to serve in their respective roles, and how our current ministry model can better serve the congregation’s mission and vision. Moving forward it will be up to the Council to implement these recommendations that should improve overall efficiency and collaboration within our ministry structure. The Board of Worship has developed a proposal to repurpose a part of our sanctuary so that it could be a more flexible space for music and provide greater accessibility to the columbarium. Their thoughtful proposal will be shared with the congregation after worship on June 5. Then the council will receive feedback from the congregation, and will likely take it to a vote in the near future. Committees such as the Shalom Team, Care Team, and Youth Ministry Dream Team will all meet to discuss their next steps too. And finally we will host a class and then receive a group of new members into the congregation on June 12…Phew!
All of this work is energizing and necessary. There is a lost of positivity and desire for collaboration in this place. It is my prayer that the Holy Spirit continues to stir this up in you long after I am gone. My final Sunday will be June 19 at 10 am and my final day in the office will be June 23. It is my hope that I connect with you in the days ahead. I give thanks to God for you and your ministry at St. Mark’s. It has been quite a ride. I look forward to continue hearing what God is doing in this place and how you continue growing together in faith to abundantly nourish your community albeit from afar.
Peace be with you, St. Mark’s.
Rev. Jason Davis
Last modified: June 14, 2022