I am so pleased to finally introduce to you our Pastoral Intern, Michelle Henrichs who will be serving among us into next May. You will read elsewhere in this issue, and in the Sunday green sheet, Michelle’s introduction. I invite you to greet Michelle with joy. She will be guided in this experience of field education by a lay support team comprised of active, regular worship attendees and leadership led by Pastor Andy. I will be supervising Michelle’s experience and assisting the lay team in supporting Michelle as she sets, moves through and completes goals for the year. Michelle will be experiencing all areas of our ministry and so you may see her pop in and out of or lead portions of meetings, events, worship and classes.
When I accepted the opportunity to mentor this seminarian 18 months ago, I did so knowing that Bay View UMC has the gifts of a teaching church. You have launched others into ministry and I trust that Michelle will receive support and valuable feedback for real ministry in the congregational setting from all of you through your generous spirits, kind hearts and informed voice. Michelle and I already have relationship foundation. We’ve been meeting over the last year and a half to journey through the seminary experience and Clinical Pastoral Education and to prepare for this time of Field Education. Now it’s time for you to get to know one another and to share ministry together! Thanks be to God for the community, the priesthood of all believers, and for each of you as you minister to Michelle and she ministers to you in the days to come.
Pastor Kelly