A Letter From Your Pastor

I have never had to write a letter like this one before in my ministry with you. But it is time to let you all know about a change that is happening for the Wyatt family. I share it with you feeling a mixture of real excitement and joy, as well as some pangs of grief.

This evening, during our stated Session meeting, I informed the Session that I have accepted a call to serve as the next Head of Staff at First Presbyterian Church in Elizabethton, Tennessee. First Elizabethton is a congregation of around 250 members, and is very active in local ministries and broader outreach. It is a church involved in some very exciting endeavors that I believe God has called me to join in this season.

Words feel insufficient to express my love and gratitude for our nearly 11 years here with you. You have nourished and nurtured me as I have grown in my ministry and in my own spiritual life. You have opened up your hearts and your lives to both me and my family. You have been gracious and generous, always ready to go with me and try new things. Your hospitality and encouragement have shaped me into who I am as a pastor and as a person. I am so grateful to God for calling me to be with you, and it will be hard to say goodbye.

Timber Ridge will always hold room in my heart, and I have been blessed to be in this place with you all for longer than I have lived anywhere in my life. I am grateful for your spirit and your humor, and all the ways you have helped me to grow. I am sure that you will faithfully discern the next step of your communal life. And I know that pastors will be lining up for the honor of serving with you.

My last Sunday as your pastor will be November 6th. The Session has called a congregational meeting to take place during worship on that Sunday for the purpose of dissolving our pastoral relationship. Our family will be moving the following week.

Timber Ridge Presbyterian Church has been a wonderful gift from the hand of God. And I am honored to have been your pastor and friend.