God Is Always On the Move
“See, I am doing a new thing!” – Isaiah 43:19a
It is a season of transitions at First United Methodist Church. We recently announced Melanie Coons as our new Director of Music Ministries, beginning a new chapter following Kristen Gossett’s retirement. And on July 1, FUMCWF will welcome its next pastor, Rev. Aaron Logan, as I transition into the role of Superintendent for the East and Mid-North Districts of the Horizon Texas Conference.
As this date draws nearer, I am reflecting more and more on my nine years here as the Senior Minister of this great church. It is hard to believe that nearly a decade has passed! Our time together has been defined not just by years, but by significant milestones that tested and proved the heart of this church.
A Legacy of Stewardship and Resilience
We began our ministry together in a season of discovery and discernment that ultimately led to a $4 million capital improvement initiative. Because of your generosity, we did not just repair roofs and replace HVAC systems; we remodeled areas of the church that helped us be more welcoming so our church can faithfully serve the next generations.
We also navigated a global pandemic together. COVID-19 changed our world, but it did not keep our church from our mission. We adapted to new ways of doing ministry and discovered how creative the Holy Spirit can be.
A Witness to Unity
In a denomination-wide season of disaffiliation and hurt, our church remained committed to being a “big tent” congregation. I am especially proud of our merger with Floral Heights UMC. When our neighbors faced a painful decision to close their doors, you held the doors open here. Our friends found more than just a place in the pews; they found a home. Seeing the church grow as a family of faith has been one of the greatest joys of my ministry.
Resurrection People
The prophet Isaiah tells us, “Forget the former things; do not dwell upon the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” While I will forever cherish the memories of our time together, Isaiah reminds us that God is always pulling us toward the horizon.
There is a line from a 90s song that says, “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.” For us, this is not just a catchy lyric; it defines what it means to be resurrection people. Our Easter faith teaches us that “the end” is never the end. Things change, and leaders transition, but the mission remains.
The Best is Yet to Come
FUMCWF is energized. I see it in the new families finding a home here and in the intergenerational wisdom being shared all over the building. New people are finding a home here. I am certain that the best day of this church are not in the rearview mirror, but directly ahead.
This church will always be family to me. While my role is changing, I am grateful that I will remain connected to you as your District Superintendent. I have high hopes for Rev. Aaron Logan and even higher hopes for what God will do through you.
You remain in my prayers always.
With love, and profound joy, for having served as your pastor,
John McLarty