A Word from Pastor Nathan

Dear Friends:

Wow, Washington Avenue Christian Church! What a weekend we shared!

Here are a few highlights: On Saturday, the lay leadership and staff joined for a conversation with the Rev. Dr. Katie Hays. The Elders provided food from BOGO pizza, salad, and sides. On Sunday, we celebrated two worship services, and the Rev. Dr. Hays facilitated a conversation during Discovery Hour. Many people told me that you asked great questions! Even Rev. Dr. Hays remarked that she left here feeling hopeful for the universal Church. You did that, WACC! You also received my partner, Chad Vickers, as the newest member of WACC. Thank you for embracing him just as you have welcomed one another and me.

Leading up to the installation service, a subcommittee of Elders helped plan the service, which Kimberly Wilhelm, Lauri Warfield, the Diaconate, and the Acolytes implemented with beauty and grace. Sunday afternoon will remain an indelible memory for me, and I hope for you, too. Sonorous music and provocative spoken word led us into making covenant with God and with one another. During communion at the installation, I looked out at the gathered congregation and saw Ohioans, Texans, Disciples, Baptists, UCCers, Episcopalians, and more. The sight was beautiful—YOU are a beautiful people. Beyond that, though, our time at the table was a foretaste of the feast that is to come. Yet, we were able to catch a glimpse of what is already true: Geography and denominations and even time itself fall away as we come—as we run—to Christ’s table.

The Elders provided beautiful flowers: yellow roses (the official rose of Texas) and calla lilies, which are my favorite. For the reception, you baked delicious varieties of chocolate chip cookies and brownies, none of which I resisted.

My family and friends—still to this moment—are raving about you. Though they’ve heard me brag about the church and tell stories, now they’ve seen first-hand what I experience every day. Your hospitality and kindness toward the numerous guests was authentic and genuine.

In summary, thank you, dear church, for the privilege of being your pastor. I look forward to years of collaborative ministry as we participate in God’s life-giving, loving, and liberating work in the world.

Joy abundant,

Nathan