You have been a wonderful congregation with whom to live and thrive for the last sixteen months. I can’t believe how lucky the search process is and how lucky you are to have Rev. Dr. Marta starting September 1. My office chair will still be warm for her. She and I will have had a lovely transitional meeting last week.
Paths part.
Notably, when I leave an interim position, I only take calls from the other ministers or staff. I DO NOT discuss church matters with members on purpose; Triangles are too easy. Grief often confuses us. My farewell is a genuine farewell. Meaning fare thee well. I am so confident you will fare well on your next path.
My last sermon was about paths and how they cross, diverge and perplex. Yes, I love to go a wandering and also go slow. Slow food, slow tech, slow trust: these are the pleasures on my path. You will be amazed about how much scripture is about paths. We never walk alone, even when we walk alone.
On Sunday, August 30, Warren and I left for Texas. We made a stop at the 300 Club to kiss it goodbye. We put a brick in the sidewalk there, saying “Donna and Warren, 2025-2026.” Yes, we loved tennis, the swimming and the people there. Not to mention the vibe. Such a green good place.
At our last service, we shared communion together. And remembered how much we care about this church and how spirited we all want it to be.
Fondly and with respect,
Rev. Dr. Donna Schaper