Sunday, May 06, 2007

a new appointment

Dear Friends and Colleagues in ministry,

This morning I announced to the congregation my appointment to Spirit Lake UMC in the Iowa Annual Conference as an associate pastor effective July 1. I had my interview last Sunday with the pastor and PPR committee. The family was able to go along and visit the community and the schools. Hannah gives it two thumbs up - as there are cute boys at the school!

I must admit that I am still a bit surprised to be going so far west - Spirit Lake is on the border with Minnesota, just north of Lake Okoboji. It is a smallish rural community - but a large church (over 300 in worship on a Sunday). The senior pastor has been there for 4 years, her name is Kay Hooper. I have been called to be responsible for Family and Youth ministries with a focus on spiritual formation and leadership development.

While I am excited about this new chapter in my life, it is a very different one than what we have enjoyed for the past 4 years. My whole family would appreciate your prayers during this time of transition...

We will be having an open house/BBQ on June 24th from noon - 3pm. We hope that you and your family will be able to join us for some southern style BBQ. In the meanwhile, blessings to you and your ministries!

Yours in Christ,

Deborah

3 comments:

Hughes said...

Deb,
We are very happy for you and your family. This congregation is blessed beyond words to be receiving your gifts for ministry and passion for the Gospel!

Just curious, is that St. Louis Cardinals country over there?

Mark and Shaylene

Deborah Coble said...

Thank you Mark and Shaylene!

Geographically I would have to assume that it is Minnesota Twins country - that being said, we can still watch the Braves...which used to be our favorite back in the day! Not sure how I feel about cheering on an AL team...but then again, as you know, it takes all kinds :-)

Blessings,
Deborah

barbara said...

Deborah,
Although you will be far from others, Rod and I are a mere two hours and a summer run from you and yours! Live long in the grand northwest...of Iowa!
Barbara