The turn of the year always invites reminiscing over the year past, and wondering about the year to come. Pastors are not exempt from that urge.

2016 was a huge year in my life, and in the life of Crescent Springs Presbyterian Church. This time last year, I was starting my final semester as a seminary student, and you all were working through interim ministry with Rev. Riley. Your Pastor Nominating Committee was in the midst of interviewing potential pastors. Neither you nor I had any idea what the coming months might bring. We walked by faith, not sight. And faith paid off! I give daily thanks to the Spirit for bringing us together. Along with my ordination, my first day as your pastor is a memory I will treasure forever.

We have each weathered a lot of change in 2016. Or perhaps weathered isn’t the right word–I think we enjoyed a lot of change in 2016. That’s quite a feat for Presbyterians! But I sensed a real enthusiasm and energy here in 2016. You all welcomed a new pastor with open arms, and have been gracious and patient as I found my way around. You have listened to a new voice in your pulpit and sung new songs I picked out and headed to the park for Halloween and generally responded “yes” whenever God asked. It’s been inspiring to watch.

It would be tempting, after so much change, to want to take a “breather” year for 2017. But it is my prayer that we can keep the energy and hopeful attitude of 2016 going as we march into the new year. Our ongoing ministries need our continued support, and I’m curious at the moment about what new ministries we might find a passion for this year. Like I said, the start of a new year is a great time to wonder!

Of course, we’re seeing some changes already. The fact that you’re reading this blog post, for one thing, means we’ve made a switch from a monthly newsletter to a weekly e-newsletter and a blog. In other high-tech news, we’re adding an online donation option to make giving to the church easier for those who prefer an online process.

Some things will never change at Crescent Springs Presbyterian: our dedication to Jesus Christ, our love for each other, our compassion for our neighbor. These are the bedrocks of our life together. But as we continue to grow in God’s grace, and to listen to the spirit, change will necessarily come. I hope we’ll meet it head-on, with faithful enthusiasm!

And I hope too, that on December 31, 2017, we’ll be able to look back and say, “Wow–what a year!”

~Pastor Carol