April 28, Second Sunday of Easter (John 20:19–31)
Passing the peace is a word of welcome. It’s also much more than that.
How’s the transition going? After I shared with my church my plan to complete my pastoral ministry, this became the most common question that I was asked. Not, How are you? or, Are you preaching this Sunday? or, Can I come by to see you at the church? Just: How’s the transition going?
I never knew what to say. My last Sunday was still months away, and much of life and ministry continued as before. I still went to the church during the week. I still preached or led worship on Sunday mornings. I still led staff meetings, went to council and committee meetings, made hospital visits. I knew the transition was coming, but it hadn’t actually happened yet.
Now, three months after my last Sunday, the transition has become real to me. I’ve started a new role as resident author at a congregation on the other side of town. When I go to my new church office during the week, I always pack a lunch since I can’t just zip up the hill to go home. My husband and I are still figuring out where to sit on Sunday mornings. I don’t know everyone’s name.
