MADE A TOUGH ANNOUNCEMENT TODAY

[indianasmith]

For the last 8 years, I have served as the pastor of a small-town Baptist church.
Today, I gave them notice that I will be stepping down at the end of April.  I love the church, I love the people, but I simply am wearing too many hats and I cannot give them the time and attention that they deserve.  I wish them all the best and pray for their future!

[Trevor]

For the last 8 years, I have served as the pastor of a small-town Baptist church.
Today, I gave them notice that I will be stepping down at the end of April.  I love the church, I love the people, but I simply am wearing too many hats and I cannot give them the time and attention that they deserve.  I wish them all the best and pray for their future!

Sending good wishes, Indy 

[Chainsawmidget]

I wish them the best and you as well. 

It's hard walking away from something you love to do.

[lester1/2jr]

I think I saw this movie http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1662293/?ref_=ttnw_hd

[Alex]

Sorry you have to step away from something you love, but I am sure you'll have many happy memories from it.

[dean]

I think I saw this movie http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1662293/?ref_=ttnw_hd

A great synopsis on IMDB! "A family's journey toward a better life is interrupted by an unstable man of the cloth."

[lester1/2jr]

hate it when that happens

[316zombie]

will you continue as a regular parishioner?

[indianasmith]

One thing I have learned in 30 years at this - when you step down as pastor, you need to leave that church altogether.  Otherwise, the new guy doesn't stand much of a chance.  I am looking forward to visiting different churches in the future.

[Flangepart]

Wise move, Compadre. Man has to know his limitations.

[316zombie]

i agree. i asked because a cousin recently became the pastor at his church, and the previous guy stayed. nobody pays any attention to jay at all.

[lester1/2jr]

what really happened: my awesome debating points made Indiana reconsider his faith. he is now giving lectures in a turtleneck on biblical innacuracies

[RCMerchant]

That sucks man. So-you can't go back and sit with your freinds? You don't have to leave that church,do you? That's f**ked if you do. 

[indianasmith]

I don't have to leave, no, it's just common courtesy.  I'll stay in touch with everyone and probably get together on social occasions, but hanging around makes it very difficult for the new guy to establish himself.  Plus I have so many other churches I want to go visit, but haven't been able to!
Today the church followed my recommendation for an interim pastor, who will step in and fill in for as long as it takes them to find someone.
I got nothing but love for everybody there, and wish them all the best!