Ardyce Retires from Receiving Treasurer Position

On Monday September 15, the session received--with great appreciation for her years of service--the retirement of Ardyce as Receiving Treasurer. Ardyce has been in this position since January 1998. When the Personnel Ministry Team conducted her annual review this summer, Ardyce said she planned to continue her work at the church. Due to her health those plans have changed. She knows that now is the time.

Plans are in the works to have a reception for Ardyce in the near future. It is likely we will recognize Ron and Ardyce together. Look for more details soon. In the meantime, join me in your prayers of thanksgiving and healing for Ron and Ardyce. They know that you all love them and care for them!

This past Sunday, the session held a special meeting and approved an offer to Dana to serve as Temporary Receiving Treasurer for a period of 90 days, from September 28^th through December 28^th. This action allows for Ardyce to retire as soon as possible (the end of this month). This action also gives the session time to search for a permanent Receiving Treasurer. We are beginning that search now. Preference will be given to non-members of this church. The position information is posted on our church website. Please help us spread the word.

In our discussion, the session acknowledged the cumulative effect of changes within our congregation. You are in an interim period. Kat and Ron have retired. And now Ardyce. We acknowledge that this is a lot to deal with. But just because things are changing doesn’t mean something is wrong. Nancy is doing very well in the office. You have received her with grace. Ron’s duties are being handled by the elected leaders of Buildings & Grounds and Worship (Damon and Andy). Now Dana, who has accounting experience and works at Southminster with the same software program, will be able to process receipts and deposits efficiently and in the strictest of confidence. The ruling elders are leading with prudence. So while there is a lot going on, you also can know that the mission of the church has not been compromised. You can have confidence in those who are leading. Most of all I ask you to have confidence in God. This is Christ’s church, and that is enough.

Interim periods are tough. No one really likes them. But the changes can often be very productive. I believe this is true for you. Your next pastor will be in an excellent position to come in and focus on ministry without being unduly burdened by administrative tasks. So hang in there. You haven’t entered the Promised Land. But you can still believe in it!