Friends in Christ,

Believe it or not, Fall is here! The temperatures may not indicate the change in season but the plethora of pumpkin-spice products available won’t let us forget.

And just as the seasons change, September continued to be a season of change and transition for many of our congregations. Most congregations continue to move forward with onsite offerings for their members while at the same time continue to minister and be in relationship with those who need/want to remain online. The creativity and ways in which local congregations are staying connected and willing to do things in new ways is inspiring.

Continuing with the theme of changes in seasons, a few of our clergy/congregations are going through some significant changes/transitions:

  • Rolling Hills Christian Church called a new settled minister, Reverend Rachael McConnell.
  • Rev. Crystal Silva-McCormick has ended her call at Church of the Savior in Cedar Park.
  • Friedens in Washington continues their discernment of whether, or not, to remain in the United Church of Christ.
  • Rev. Ryan Hart and Open Cathedral are taking some intentional time of discernment (a practice we all might consider from time to time)

We hold each other in prayer as we all find ourselves in this in between time. Specifically, we hold those churches that are in the various phases of search and call/interim/transitional work (Rolling Hills Christian Church, Trinity Church of Austin, Congregational Church of Austin, Church of the Savior, St. Peter’s UCC Coupland, and Faith UCC New Braunfels).

Change is inevitable and consistent, but together we can support one another through whatever changes may come our way.

So glad to be on the journey with you!

~ Rev. Nikki Stahl, Heart of Texas Association Minister