Sunday again reminded me of how lucky I am to have been called to serve as a pastor of the United Church of Gainesville. I’m still flying high after that incredible day. Thank you so much for coming out and celebrating with us. I am grateful and proud of our work together these past twenty years.
Special thanks to the Congregation Ministry Review Board for overseeing all our celebrations and orchestrating a fantastic party. And to John and Christine Denny and the First Magnitude crew, Candice King and friends for the lovely decorations, Heidi Stein for the incredible memory book, the Hogtown Pickers and Breakfast 4 Dinner for the delightful entertainment, and all the voices, hearts, and hands that went into such an uplifting and soulful send off. Thank you all!
I am overwhelmed by your generosity towards the Lac Courte Oreilles Campership and the pilgrimage fund. It means so much to me that the love and generosity of UCG will make the gift of Highlands possible for our tribal neighbors. Thank you! And I am so excited to begin dreaming about my next pilgrimage.
Pilgrimage experiences have shaped my heart and faith during the most monumental transitions in my life, and this transition is a big one. I will honor your generosity with thanksgiving every day and share the journey with you when I return. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
Words don’t adequately capture how blessed we feel to be a part of the UCG community. You have shaped our lives, loved my children and spouse, and honored me with the gift of being your pastor. I will miss you and this work tremendously, and I look forward to rejoining you as a fellow neighbor on the road next year.
With love, gratitude, and most profound appreciation,
Andy
I am so grateful our paths crossed this past year and I was able to get a glimpse of what it’s like being under your leadership at UCG. I will miss you, your creativity, musical talent and fun sense of humor! Blessings on your next adventure? Shirell
Andy, you Tracy Judah, Stella and Remy will always have a place in my heart.
Blessings and Shalom ❤️ Carole
Dear Andy,
My heart was with you even though I could not be there in person. Paul (my son, whom I haven’t seen since before Covid) was due to arrive that afternoon – I was torn – I have limited energy and even though Susan was ready to take me to the service, I decided to be sensible. My health won out. Have a blessed retirement, and on the next pilgrimage. Much love, Beth Sugalski
I have been coming to UCG for three years. Became a member last year. It is an amazing Church! Altho I live towards Cedar Key, I rarely miss a Sunday. So thankful I’ve had the good fortune to enjoy Andy’s guidance. I can feel how much he will be missed! But I believe this amazing Congregation will,
once again, find just the right Pastor! I am a retired High School Social Studies teacher from Homestead, Fl. Hope to get involved here at UCG.