Benediction and valediction

On Sunday, July 27, Pastor Kirk candidated at Fair Oaks Presbyterian Church near Sacramento and 897 members voted to call him as their next pastor. His ministry there will begin September 1.

So, it’s good-bye. As in, “God be with you.” A final embrace. A farewell kiss. Many tears.

I have been pastor of this church for 12 and a half years. This is the longest I have lived anywhere, served anywhere. This has been the richest season of my life, full of spiritual adventure, warm relationships, exhilarating challenges, events and people who have touched my soul and changed me. And I have watched God change them.

I cannot adequately express my deep love for the Fallbrook Presbyterian congregation and this great community. My gratitude to your generous response to my ministry is overwhelming. Thank you, Fallbrook.

A big part of my heart will always be here with you. Here I have stood at the Lord’s table and shared with you the body and blood of Christ. Here I have stepped gingerly into our church’s funky baptistry and taken sons and daughters under God’s cleansing flood. Here I have taught and preached God’s Word – nearly 600 sermons. Here I have laid hands on you and prayed over you. And your prayers have held me up, healed and strengthened me. Here we have experienced together God’s powerful presence and grace. Often I have fumbled and stumbled and you have been generous and forgiving.

My faith is larger because of our life together. And this 12-year pastoral season has equipped and prepared me for the season to come. Thank you, Fallbrook.

So… one day I’ll be here with you – laughing, crying, preaching, praying – experiencing life that is full of grace and joy. And the next day I’ll be gone. My heart will be full. These memories will be very precious. I will miss you all more than I can say.

Keep going, church of Fallbrook. Keep growing! The good work God has begun in you – let him bring it to completion. (Phil 1:6) I leave Fallbrook Pres in the capable hands of Pastor Jerome Marroquin and Greg Coppock to fulfill this mission.

“After all, what gives us hope and joy, and what is our proud reward and crown? It is you – when we stand together before our Lord Jesus when he comes back again. You are our glory and joy.” (1Thess 2:19-20)

God bless you.