New Beginnings

The following is part of a letter that I read today to the congregation. Change is on the way for our family and for my current place of service for sure!

Church Family:

I want you to know that last Sunday I was offered and accepted the position of Senior Pastor at Washington Plaza Baptist Church in Reston, Virginia.

I want you to know how difficult of decision this was for me as I have enjoyed my experience as Pastor of Education and Youth at First Baptist Gaithersburg very much. I am very sad when I think about saying goodbye to so many dear friends over the next several weeks.

The church welcomed me as the first female pastor in many years with open arms and has been very supportive of my ministry. I have thoroughly enjoyed building relationships with the ministry leaders with whom I work closely and I have felt encouraged by the joy of the youth group members. The support of the other pastors and the office staff has enabled me to strengthen my pastoral identity and leadership capabilities within the congregation.

I have been proud of the work the congregation and I have been able to accomplish together, especially in the interim period. I am thankful for the ways the church has given me the opportunity to work toward the general mission of the congregation as this has given me a great amount of pastoral and administrative experience that I would not otherwise have received. I have spent much time with so many of the committees of the congregation. I have visited many of you in the hospitals and your homes. We have laughed, cried and celebrated life's joys together.

Yet, I feel strongly that my primary calling for ministry is to preach and lead a congregation. I know that God is calling me to this next chapter in my life and ministry. In the same way that I feel God is leading me; I know God is doing the same for FBCG. God will continue to care for and lead the church to its next pastoral staff and please know that you are in great hands under the leadership of Pastors Lonnie and Joseph until then.

Know that I will be cheering you on from across the beltway, wishing God's best for you. I will be very excited to hear about the ways that God continues to lead you in the months and years to come!

With thanksgiving for you!
Pastor Elizabeth