DS sees influence of
connection on world

Thank you for the reception for Carol and me Sunday, May 21. We enjoyed visiting with members from local churches and with clergy. Thanks also to all of you who could not attend but sent messages. And thank you for the generous gift, which will help make a vacation trip possible this summer. The memory book with pictures and notes from churches and pastors will be a treasured Hall-Tisdale keepsake.
I have been a district superintendent learning on the job for seven years. Being a connectional minister is a rich experience. The view of the UMC from this office is different from the view from the local church or campus ministry. I have witnessed the influence of the connection on the world in its hurts and hopes. I am, more than ever, appreciative of the good that is accomplished by our cooperative efforts. I am also more aware of the challenges of being a diverse church under the same big tent.
It will be my pleasure to return to the work of a local church pastor and to be serving under the supervision of my cabinet colleague Kim Cape. Kim is passionate about making disciples and extending ministries of mercy and justice. I encourage you to receive her warmly and to make her feel welcome in your congregations, as you did for me when I arrived.
May God give us courage as we continue to witness and serve our neighbors in the name and in the spirit of Jesus Christ.