Pastor's Note

Rev. Peter Hey, Senior Pastor

Dear Ones,

Most of you may already know this, but just in case you haven't heard I will be retiring in June 2026. My last Sunday with you will be June 7. I informed the Bishop in January, and now he and the cabinet are starting the discernment process to choose your new pastor for July 2026. Once they have decided on the right person, the Staff Parish Relations Committee will play an active role in ensuring a smooth transition.

We are pleased to welcome Samantha McCune as our new Administrative Assistant. Sam will start on Tuesday, February 10 at 9 am. She is from Wilmington, attended Merrimack College, and holds a Master of Divinity from Boston University School of Theology.

I am happy to announce that our former Administrative Assistant has accepted a position as a paraprofessional aide with the Haverhill School system. Erika's bilingual abilities will be an
asset to both her students and the school community.

Lent is a season set aside for nurturing our spiritual journeys. This year's theme is "Gifts of the Dark Wood," inspired by Eric Elnes's book. Through this series, we'll be encouraged to see life's difficult periods not as obstacles, but as valuable chances for personal development.

As we journey through our sermon series, we warmly invite you to join us for Ash Wednesday worship at 7:30 pm in the sanctuary, shared with our friends from Aldersgate Church, North Reading. In addition, our "Soup and Spirit" gatherings will take place on Wednesdays from February 22 through March 22, beginning at 6:30 pm. Come enjoy homemade soups, meaningful conversation, and thoughtful reflection on Sunday's worship themes in a relaxed, welcoming setting. All are encouraged to attend, and sign-ups are available.

Grace and peace
Peter.