A Note from Pastor Katie

Dear Bethany Community,

There are moments in the life of a congregation that feel like a deep breath, like something long imagined quietly finding shape among us. Our congregational meeting on April 19 felt like one of those moments.

I am writing to you with a heart full of gratitude for the way this community has shown up in times of discernment: the questions, the laughter, the honesty, the prayer, and ultimately the congregation’s unanimous call we share together. What began as a vote also became a moment of recognition, trust, and shared hope for what God is doing among us here at Bethany.

I have found myself returning to it in the days since with a kind of quiet amazement. There is something deeply life-giving about a community that can listen, speak, and move forward with such clarity and care. And so, with all that I can muster: thank you.

As we step into what comes next, I do so with both steadiness and joy. There are still pieces of process ahead of us as we move toward installation and continue shaping the structures of our shared life, but the direction before us feels fertile and alive.

It feels a little like spring in that way; things are already stirring beneath the surface, asking us to tend them with care.

In the coming season, we will continue shaping what ministry looks like at Bethany, discerning how we are called to grow, and imagining how our life together can continue to be both grounded and expansive. I am grateful for the people of this community. Your hearts for justice and service, and the ways you live out faith through creativity, care, and passion. It inspires me each day.

I am grateful not only for what has been decided, but for what God will do through us because of it.

It is a joy to serve among you. I am looking forward to what we will discover as we keep journeying forward, one faithful day at a time.

With gratitude, joy, and peace,

Pastor Katie