FROM PASTOR SHERRI
I am excited to write my first Pastor’s Blog for Faith UMC. Yesterday, I was officially appointed as an Associate Pastor to Faith. My primary responsibility will be serving the Bixby campus. I must admit that all of this is quite a surprise.
On July 1, I rolled into Tulsa with my dog and a car full of house plants that the movers refused to transport. I was looking forward to reuniting with my husband who had moved to Tulsa in January, but I stayed in Maryland to finish the Conference Year where I was appointed. It had been a heck of a six months serving a church and getting everything ready for the move. I couldn’t wait for a time of respite having been granted a transitional leave of absence from active ministry service for one year to get acclimated in Tulsa. Little did I know there were plans bigger than mine.
My first visit to Faith-Tulsa was very welcoming. I was nicely greeted and invited to several Faith Classes following worship. My husband introduced me to Pastor Heather, whom he had met on a previous visit, and we connected immediately. As I learned of all the things Pastor Heather was dealing with personally, I offered to assist however I could. She accepted my offer: inviting me to preach and receiving my gift of writing worship liturgy. I thought, this is great! I am doing what I love, writing liturgy, AND helping someone in their time of need. But there was more.
Pastor Heather and I met for lunch often. I continually offered my service to relieve her of responsibilities as she dealt with family matters. She often mentioned the new Bixby launch to which I usually responded with my prayers. As we spent more time together, she would say, “Are you sure you are not interested in being the Bixby Pastor?” I initially responded with an emphatic, “Yes, I am sure!!!”
Seemingly God had other plans. One day she asked and I agreed to both of our surprise. After MUCH prayer and consultation with my husband, I realized that God was answering my prayer. I was welcomed into this wonderful congregation with an awesome team of staff. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve at Faith. Thanks to all of you for your kind words and support as I join you in Christ-centered service.
Blessings,
Pastor Sherri
Announcements:
This Saturday, Sherri will lead us in the Bixby Christmas parade. If you or your kids would like to ride or walk, please gather at 3pm at the Bixby Central Elementary School parking lot. You will be hearing from Sherri very soon and she will share about her journey in ministry that has led her to Faith.
Don’t forget that the Tulsa location is only having ONE service as we present the Voices of the Nativity Christmas Music Special at 10am on Sunday. Bring a friend too!