"I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of yesteryear. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds." (Psalm 77:11-12)

Has it been a year already? Wow—I can hardly believe it!

When I reflect back on this first year, I am actually quite amazed as to how many memories I have already accumulated! Some of my personal highlights include: The 1st Annual Bethel Beach Party, Rally Day, and all of the baptisms and special worship services. I’ve also begun to develop some good friendships, and have shared some special moments with many of you.

Obviously, as a "first call"/"first year" Pastor, it has also been a time of great learning and growth for me personally. One of the big lessons I've learned is not to "sweat the small stuff", or to allow myself to get sucked into the small, petty, and insignificant matters that can drain my energy and strength from the more essential matters of my pastoral leadership. (Hey, I am learning, aren't I?)

I have come to a deeper understanding that our great diversity calls for greater tolerance—and because of our diversity, there is no such thing as "one way of doing things." The ethnic-cultural mix of our congregation is a microcosm of our community at-large—the community we are called to identify with and welcome into our midst.

While we celebrate a year of new and (unique!) pastoral leadership, let us also celebrate our great diversity—which is made up of great uniqueness! It is our witness to the world that Christians from every race, nation, culture, gender, age, and ability, can relate, worship, serve, and grow together!

Moving Ahead in Christ

+Pastor Dan


Previous Pastor's Pages

• Winter, 2002
• Fall, 2002