Dear Partners in Ministry,
I just want to say thank you for your words, letters, phone calls and supportive emails. It means the world to me knowing I am not walking into this bishop venture alone!
As fellow clergy, I know you understand the ministry transition Gretchen and I are experiencing. I'm trying hard to honor my call here at Atonement, Newport while also anticipating my new position. It's a challenge to balance the need to disconnect slowly with one's desire to fully engage in what's coming up. The good news for Gretchen and me is that we believe we have found a place to live in Milwaukie. We hope to move at the end of July. This is also a good time for us to move family wise. We have a 23 year old son, Aaron, who just graduated from Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) and heads to grad school next fall. My daughter Clare is also at PLU, working there for the summer and beginning her junior year in Religion and Women's Studies. My youngest son, Nate, just graduated from high school and is planning to start at Western Oregon University next fall. So that all fits. My last Sunday at Atonement will be July 15th. My first day at 2800 N. Vancouver (synod office) is August 1st.
As you may know the whole of the synod staff is officially co-terminus with Bishop Paul Swanson. As we transition, I have asked Pastor Zane Wilson to continue through October . He has graciously agreed. Kathy Shutt and Julie Mankin will also extend their service while we look at needs and opportunities. Deb Mantey is on sabbatical so I have not had a chance to talk with her. Bev Taylor is moving to the coast. The personnel committee will be hiring for her position. Please keep your ears open for people that might be interested in the office assistant position at the synod office.
I appreciate and am strengthened by your prayers. Thank you. I also ask that you to remember and honor Bishop Paul and Mary Swanson as they fulfill their time of service. The next several years will be a wonderful journey for us all. Please let me know how the bishop's office can serve you and our synod.
May God go before us with boldness and may we find the courage to follow!
Bishop-elect,
Dave Brauer-Rieke |
