a transition

One thing that is seemingly constant in the life of our ministry these days is change.  And we're approaching another significant one.

Shari Ford, who has served at Prairie Lakes Church in a number of different staff and volunteer roles for a number of years now - most recently as the Administrative Assistant for Programming and Production - is transitioning out of her role.

This transition was something that Shari initiated after much prayer and wrestling.  In the end, she felt that this was the right decision for her at the right time.

From Shari:

I love our church and the direction we're moving.

I love our ministry and the artistic steps that we continue to take.

I love our Creative Staff and the freakishly talented way you guys operate.

I love our volunteers and the very concrete way they model 'the church' and community to me.

And I love our God, so very much.

Nothing about any of that has, or is going, to change.

If I were to be authentic (as I think everyone has come to expect from me) I will admit to being confused about what comes next.  I mean, I am the girl who likes to know what's around the corner.  And, when I look at the list above, and measure it against the decision that I've made, it doesn't seem to add up.  Yet, it appears that God is asking me to do exactly what I'm doing.  And, in faith, I will trust Him and try and walk in obedience to His calling.  (The one thing I think I said well, early today!) . 

God has been so faithful to all of us, hasn't He?  I've seen it, heard evidence of it, from every one of you.  We all know it to be true.  And He's not about to stop now.  There have been times in my life when the leading I sensed from Him was a gentle nudge in a general direction, and other times it was clear He was giving me a stiff 'push' off a particular cliff. (*wink*) Whichever situation it was, I've always known He's in control of it all and looked back to see His faithfulness.

I think you guys are one of the most talented group of artists in the entire world.  I really do.  And It has been one of the greatest joys of my life - - - truly an honor - - - to have worked with each and every one of you.

Thank you, all of you, for what you've taught me.  For what you've brought into my life and for the role that you allowed God to play through you, to me. I am so incredibly grateful.

I love you guys.

Thank you, Shari, for your selfless, humble, and faithful service.  Though you will remain connected to our ministry and community, you will be missed in the role that you served.

What's next?  Well:

As it concerns Shari and our community, at her request, we won't be doing some big party.  Just not her style.  She'd welcome cards, emails, and conversations (oh... and cash, she'd like to add).  So, direct those her way.  Her last day as an employee will be Friday, May 28.

We will start a search immediately for Shari's replacement.  If you are interested in applying, check the bulletin this weekend, or hop on to the newly designed Prairie Lakes Church website.

Please join me in praying about Shari's future, a new season for the Ford family, as well as a new season for our ministry as we head out on the journey to discover who will fill Shari's position.

Like Shari said: God is, has always been, and will forever be faithful to us.  It's now time to discover what's next.