Hi First Presbyterian Church,

It’s time for our Mid-Week Meet-Up! I have some bittersweet news to share with you today. Over the weekend, Craig Kunkle accepted the call to become the next pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Sturgis, Michigan. This is great news, because Craig will now begin an exciting new chapter of ministry. Congratulations to him! His new church will be very blessed to have him. However, it’s also sad news, because it means Craig will be leaving us in Pittsford after more than 14 years of ministry here.

Before Craig leaves us, there will be plenty of opportunities for you to share your congratulations to him and say goodbye. His last day with us will be Sunday, November 23. Craig will be helping to lead worship at both services on November 23, and I encourage you to make every effort to attend worship that day. There will be a celebration of his ministry with us during and after the 10:00 am service.

Saying goodbye is difficult, but I am reminded of the words of Paul: “I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6). God goes with Craig in this new chapter with his new church, and God remains with us in our continued ministry. Let’s pray for Craig as he takes this exciting next step. If you’re not sure what to pray, I encourage you to use these words from Numbers 6:24-26:

"The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you. The Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.”

Peace to you,
Pastor Aaron