As I write these words, there are 31 hours left until a new year begins—and 31 final hours for me to serve as pastor of Woodland Church. I pause in this moment with a grateful heart. Scripture tells us, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning” (Lamentations 3:22–23). Those mercies have been evident to me through you.

Thank you for loving my wife and children so faithfully. Through you, God has shown our family the beauty of His care. There is something sacred about the bond between a pastoral family and a church family. Our children grew up surrounded by love, prayer, and encouragement, and even now our adult sons return home eager to reconnect with the people who helped shape their faith. That is a gift we will treasure for a lifetime.

From the beginning, we sought to be a Spirit-filled and Spirit-led church. God graciously guided us to live out a shared mission: “Celebrating God’s love by persuading people to become passionate followers of Christ.” These words became more than a statement; they became a way of life. And we learned together that such a life is only possible through the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit.

We have witnessed the faithfulness of God as many placed their trust in Jesus Christ. Each testimony, each baptism, each transformed life reminds us that the gospel is still the power of God for salvation. You did not merely speak about faith—you lived it. You anchored your lives and families in the finished work of Christ and trusted His Word to guide you.

Woodland Church has always been marked by committed relationships—believers walking together, bearing one another’s burdens, and building each other up in love. Becky and I were blessed to share life with you in homes and small groups, around tables and open Bibles, in prayer and laughter. These moments were holy ground, reminders that the church is not a building, but a people called together by God.

We loved hosting groups of men, ladies, young adults, students, young married couples, how-to-study-your-Bible groups, Holy Spirit groups, and even a long “Lost” television series group that, as we all know, ended dismally. Boy, did it end on a disappointing note! LOL!

Our care for one another also overflowed beyond our walls. As a “glocal” church, we embraced God’s call to love both neighbor and nations. Through your obedience and generosity, churches were built, pastors supported, clinics established, children fed and clothed, and hope extended near and far. You became the hands and feet of Christ in the world, and I thank God for you.

I am so thankful for every pastor, board member, shepherd leader, support team, teacher, departmental leader, usher, greeter, server, worship team member, musician, nursery, children’s, youth, first touch, grounds and maintenance ministry team member for your partnership in ministry. I have enjoyed serving Christ with you!

To my beloved and beautiful wife, Becky: You are the light of my eyes, the love of my heart, the one who listens to my deepest thoughts, who offers faithful counsel, and who shares my call to serve the body of Christ. I love you!

As this season comes to a close, I do so with deep gratitude. It has been an honor and a joy to serve as your pastor. I will continue to lift you up in prayer, trusting the One who began a good work among you to carry it to completion. “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you.”

I love you.