Dear Friends in Christ,

Please let me take this opportunity to introduce you to someone most of you already know—Rev. Carole McCartney. In response to an offer from the session, Carole has agreed to become a parish associate for our congregation. Here’s what that means.

Our Presbyterian Book of Order provides an opportunity for a “win-win” situation for congregations and retired ministers. Many congregations can use the guidance and assistance that an experienced pastor can provide, whether they are a small congregation trying to expand its ministry, like we are, or a large congregation where the staff is stretched thin trying to get everything done. And from the other side, many retired pastors still have much to offer yet don’t have a place to fit in regularly, sometimes feeling awkward about staying around the churches where they were once on staff, sometimes moving to a new area where they don’t know anyone, and usually hesitant about offering their services unless asked, wherever they go. So, to help out both situations, the position of Parish Associate was created. It allows a congregation’s pastor and governing board to offer to the retired pastor a chance to become a more regular part of the church and use some of his or her gifts to benefit the church.  Usually the position is part time, and usually it is unpaid.

Carole and I talked earlier this month about what are her best skills in ministry and what she feels interested in accomplishing in her next few years of less “official” ministry. She has demonstrated gifts in pastoral care and visitation, which many of you recognized as she was moderator of session and frequent worship leader before I came last year. She also wants to help a congregation grow in spirituality, what we call “spiritual formation” these days. And the session and I think this will help us expand our ministries considerably in those areas. Also, Carole will be around when I am away on vacation or continuing education to provide regular pulpit supply and emergency visitation.

There are still some hoops to jump through before this becomes official. The Presbytery Committee on Ministry needs to approve this relationship, and we will draw up a more formal agreement about Carole’s duties, but we do hope to have a ceremony yet this spring to welcome her formally into the position of parish associate. In the meantime you will see her somewhat more frequently in worship. Greet her warmly, as you always do, and be prepared to see how she may help us become even more active disciples of Jesus Christ here in the friendly realm of White Memorial Presbyterian Church in Willow Spring.

Shalom,

Duane