A few weeks ago I went for a walk around our church campus at lunchtime, and I stopped at the Columbarium. This is not a place I usually frequent, but on this day I’m glad I did. As I walked, I paused to read the name of each saint listed and realized I had come to know so many of them throughout the past 10 years at Clemmons UMC. My eyes welled up with tears as I thanked God for their witness, and I also thanked God for the absolute blessing of being at CUMC for such a long time.
In regard to ministry, I believe the longer leaders stay in one location, the healthier the church. Our roots grow deep, our bonds become more tightly knit, and the community is more vibrant. This certainly has been the case at CUMC. Both Ann Marie and I have developed many incredible relationships and friendships. We are a God family. Before God called us to CUMC, we were both praying that God would lead us to a church where our gifts for ministry could shine for His glory.
Because of God’s grace and leading, we began the Praise service in 2009 with steady success and have seen the student ministry explode with growth I never could have imagined. However, over this past year, we have felt God gently uprooting us and giving us a burden for a new season of ministry. We didn’t know what that would look like.
Over the past two years I have felt an increasing desire to preach regularly and lead in more of an associate pastor role. Matthew and the CUMC staff have been very supportive of this call, and I am most thankful for Matthew’s gracious leadership and our wonderful church staff. This is a loving church, and I am so happy here, but as I listen to God, I can see my calling in ministry is changing.
As of July 1st, I will begin a new appointment as the Associate Pastor of Contemporary Worship and Evangelism at Wesley Memorial UMC in High Point, NC. My last Sunday at CUMC will be June 16th. I grieve to think of leaving the closeness of this church family, but I look forward with hope. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for CUMC. Thank you for loving me and my family.
In regards to Clemmons:One, God has provided a fantastic group of adult leaders and a student leadership team, and we have laid a strong foundation in our student ministry of biblical teaching, meaningful service, and outreach events that I am certain will continue to be a blessing to young people for years to come. The 9:45am Praise service will continue to be a place where vibrant worship occurs and all people can hear the Gospel of Jesus each week.
Please be in prayer for Matthew and our excellent Leadership Team as they navigate this time of transition. The Holy Spirit has definitely led this change, and keep praying for the Spirit to lead CUMC as they seek to find staff to fill this role.
May God bless each of you! I look forward to speaking with you and celebrating all God has done in our midst these past 10+ years together. Ann Marie and I love you all and thank God for each of you.
Christ in Us!
Rev. Clark Davis Chilton
No comments:
Post a Comment