Another Goodbye

In a few weeks, my pastor and friend of 14 years is leaving our church for new opportunities. I’m grieving.

Fourteen years ago, I started attending my church after 10 years of running away from organized religion. I wanted to experience a true relationship with God, not a ritual. I was a scared lil’ girl trying to extricate myself from an abusive relationship, and when I went to John for help, he and his wife Peggy let me and my little girls live with them until I got back on my feet.

Over the years, our two families have shared baptisms, weddings, bible studies, faith and pain and dinner dates. I know we’ll still be friends, but I also know that it won’t be the same, and I’m sad for that.

I could tell you that I’m not good at goodbyes, but I don’t think that captures the full flavor of  my grief. If you could imagine me flinging myself on the floor, wrapping my arms around their ankles and moaning, “Don’t go…don’t go…”, I think you might have a better picture of my pain.

Have you ever lost a spiritual leader and friend in these circumstances? What was your transition like? How did God help you during that time?

Published by angelawd on January 16th, 2008 tagged Daily Christianity


3 Responses to “Another Goodbye”

  1. josie Says:
    January 16th, 2008 at 8:44 am

    I can feel your pain. I too lost a pastor who was a close personal friend a while back. It was exciting for him to get this great new call to a great opportunity … but … I miss the pastor that brought the real meaning of Christ into my life. I miss the social gatherings. I miss my pastor and friend! I didn’t get through it well, it just took time to grieve. Eventually the hurt faded and the reality of a new day and new relationships sor to ftook over. I’ll be praying for you and your congregation.

  2. Stacey Says:
    January 16th, 2008 at 9:49 am

    I have not. I pray God will wrap his arms around you and lift you when you need to be lifted through the departure of what sounds like an amazing family. What a blessing, what a gift they have been. xo

  3. Not a Eulogy « angelawd Says:
    February 7th, 2008 at 10:02 am

    […] 7, 2008 in Uncategorized As I mentioned before, my pastor is leaving our church. Left, in fact, after last weekend’s farewell party in which […]

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