Pastor's Corner

As many of you have undoubtedly already heard, as of July 1, 2010, I will be appointed as Senior Pastor to the Sicklerville United Methodist Church. This is a significantly larger church with more staff and greater responsibility for me. Therefore, I will be depending on your continued prayers as we make this transition.

   There have been several indications and confirmations that this change in ministry is God-ordained. Among other things the timing and the church itself is a good fit for my passion, spiritual giftedness, and pastoral experience.

   These past 17 years in Elmer as your pastor have been a great “ride” and a tremendous blessing for Bev and me. We cherish the years that we have had together. Time and time again God has blessed us as a church, enriched our ministry and deepened our faith and commitment to Christ and His Kingdom.

   For many of you the United Methodist way of changing pastors is new and different. As Methodist, pastors are appointed by our Bishop rather than selected by the local church. The Bishop and his cabinet (i.e. 9 District Superintendents of our NJ Conference) have been in prayer and discussion about what would best suit the needs of Elmer UMC. Our Delaware Bay District Superintendent, Richard Nichols has been meeting conscientiously with our Staff Parish Relations Committee (Donna Stemberger, Chpn.) to determine this “fit.” Last Sunday, it was announced in our morning worship service that Rev. David Repenning and his family will be moving to Elmer. I believe that Dave and Barbara are about the same age as Bev and me and have two of their five children still living at home with them. Dave came into the ministry around the same time as I did and has served churches in Bridgeton, Port Norris, Penns Grove, and Gloucester City. He has been pastor in Milford, PA the last 10 years. I am confident that his loving, “people-oriented” style will be good for Elmer UMC and the healing of the congregation.

   Change never comes easy for most of us. I join most of you in a mixture of emotions that could be described as “bittersweet.” While there is some excitement for me about the opportunity ahead, there is considerable apprehension for the magnitude of the challenge I’m facing, and a lot of sadness and  grieving, leaving so many in our Elmer church family whom I have come to love so dearly.

   For the next 4 months, let us continue to work together to share the love of Jesus Christ and further His Kingdom. Please don’t stop praying for us. I pray that our great God will continue to fill you with His Spirit to complete you in every way you need to bring Him glory in the church and to enjoy Him forever.

In His Regard,
 Pastor Al