On July 30th, 2013, with great anticipation I entitled my initial article “Now That We Have Begun.” On October 24, 2016, it is with a sense of bitter-sweetness that I write my last article. Bitter at having to leave you, but pleased and thankful for the ministry we have had together.
We indeed have had quite a run despite a bump or two here and there along the way. What I have experienced is what I was told by one and all who know Mingo-Farrar: I was getting two wonderful churches. Having arrived just in time for Mingo’s Annual Ice Cream Social, my initial impression based just on the detailed planning—included in the newsletter—was what a well-oiled machine.
Not too long after that, a new committee with a non-Methodist sounding name at our Farrar Church started bugging me about worship plans for something called a Quasquicentennial Celebration not to take place for at least a whole year later! I thought what’s the big hurry? Thanks to the foresight and sweat-equity of that strangely named Farrar Church-on-Church Committee, the celebration was a huge success. It was remarkable how they were able to rally the efforts of practically the entire congregation in the final days leading up to the big day. And what a day it was with the roll-out of a newly installed projection system and with the Iowa Bishop preaching.
Back at Mingo, after a brief hiatus several members prevailed upon me to resume their weekly daytime Bible Study. Not to be outdone—not that there was any competition—an engaged couple took it upon themselves to feed Farrar’s spiritual hunger with an evening video and discussion meeting. Eventually, Farrar would host a joint Experiencing God Bible Study held in the evening for the benefit of those who work during the day.
Speaking of joint ministry, there were very successful joint Vacation Bible Schools and a joint Confirmation Class. Speaking of not being out done—again not that there was any spirit of competition—Mingo also installed and began using a projection system. I could go on and on recalling the mighty works of God in our midst that has made my time with you “quite a run.”
The word that I heard from the Lord was simply “It’s time.” I discovered a long, long time ago that when the Lord speaks, it behooves me to listen. Most of you know what I am talking about. I found out the hard way that it is not a good idea to “drag your feet’ when the Lord tells you to do something. Although He has not told me what the next phase of my ministry is to be, this much I do know as it concerns you: He loves you with an everlasting love and that there is nothing—absolutely nothing—that can separate you from His love. He has not brought you thus far to leave you. You have His sure and certain promise that He will never forsake you nor ever leave you. Embrace the future that He has for you and just rest in Him.
I pray your quick and ready bond with the interim ministry of Rev. Duane “Doc” Skidmore. If you love him just half as much as you have loved me, everything is going to be alright. I thank God for your faithful respective ministries. I thank God also for your very giving and sharing kindness—literally from A to Z: from apples to zucchini. Each of you will be sorely missed. God loves you and so do I. AND, always remember you are blessed beyond measure!
– Pastor Curtis
Click here to read of the November Newsletter!
