Tomorrow, with a final sermon, I close out my 7.5 year ministry in a community ~2 hours (by car) from my home. For these past years I've been spending 3 days each week (theoretically) at the church site and then commuting back home. It has been a rewarding ministry in any number of ways and I've been fortunate to be with these people.
A week from tomorrow I begin, with a first sermon, a new pastorate, as I've accepted a call to my home church that is ~ 20 minutes (by foot) from my home. This will be a full time pastorate replete with staff and accouterments.
While I am sad to leave the congregation I've grown to love, I look forward to the new challenge and being home on a much more regular basis. Less time on the road will be a plus as well as I will have more time in the pen cave!
Blessings for the New Year!