The drive from my home to my destination included interstate and county roads. I like the interstate for cruise control and lenient speed limit enforcement; I like country roads for the scenery and curves, letting me engage with the road like a “grand prix” driver.
This morning, I was to be at Mitchells Presbyterian Church leading worship the first Sunday after their pastor accepted another call. The goal was to participate in worship and have a town hall–like meeting with the session and any members who had “what next” questions.
This was my second time at Mitchells, having filled in for their pastor in September 2025. I found the church the same as before: friendly and inviting, chatting with me and others—just being themselves.
The only sign something was different was the pastor’s study. It’s the first office inside the side door, nicely furnished with a great set of bookcases. Today, those bookcases were empty. Having moved as a clergy person three times, I can tell you packing away one’s library is a somber occasion.
Worship centered on Peter’s Pentecost sermon. A particular take bounced around in my thoughts: Peter’s tone, the “and that’s the way it is” finality of it (think Walter Cronkite).
Today was a typical Sunday: sitting in that unique sanctuary, listening to the choir lead worship and response, sharing moments from the congregation’s life, celebrating a child of the church returning for a concert, keeping an eye on the three male choir members just off to my right (they told me to be aware of them last time!), sharing prayer, and being part of a faith-filled congregation living out its faith for all to see.
After worship, we gathered in the fellowship hall with the session and many members and talked about “the process”—and more importantly, what both the session and congregation could do to keep moving forward. They had already secured supply pastors for the short term, and the Clerk reminded everyone that the pastor left behind a comprehensive “checklist” for the session (well done, preacher!).
The best part was the congregation’s decision (no motions, no seconds, no votes, just “yeses”) to continue with the activities that had become part of the church’s life for 2026. I suppose this is their “we’ve got this” attitude coming through. Oh yes, and there were snacks and drinks!
It was good to see my siblings in Christ that morning, though a little sad; the congregation assured me ministry will go on. There will be work for them to do, and for the presbytery to do as well. They are ready to get things moving, and my note to COM will say the same.
All in all, another wonderful day in the POJ neighborhood!
Blessings,
Kerry
