“Everything on earth has its own time and its own season” (Eccl. 3:1 CEB).

The first verse from the third chapter of Ecclesiastes reminds me that mourning the loss of the church I leave is natural. The reading does not imply that I cannot feel excited about moving to a new church. On the contrary, the possibilities ahead of me as I move to a new place offer new and unique ways to serve as a pastor. The reality is that to be fully present in what is to come, and I mourn what I give up as the time comes to move to our new home.
The First United Methodist Church of Belen holds a special place in my heart. Its unique blend of warmth and acceptance has made it a truly exceptional congregation. While it may not be without its imperfections, the beauty of this church lies in the unwavering compassion it extends to every soul that crosses its threshold.
As I prepare to leave the First United Methodist Church of Belen, I find myself in a state of mourning. I know that I must bid farewell to the radical hospitality of this congregation and embark on a new journey. In this time of transition, I must admit that I am feeling a bit nervous. The unknown can be daunting. What will the future bring?
While I must mourn, I realize there is a time to open my heart and embrace a new beginning, complete with new faces, hopes, and dreams. The verse from Ecclesiastes allows space for a time to mourn, but it does not mean I stay in the same place. Sadness gives way to dancing. Seasons change as we move through life. The secret is to learn the lessons the Divine offers each season as we continue to grow.
It is possible to hold two truths in my heart. On one hand, I mourn leaving a wonderful place, while on the other, I am filled with anticipation for the new journey that awaits me. I feel a strong calling to St. Paul’s UMC in Las Cruces, much like when I first moved to Belen. I am ready to serve as God leads me to the next chapter in my journey. I extend my blessings to all my clergy colleagues who, like me, are transitioning from a season of mourning to the excitement of a new appointment.