On December 4, we had a called congregational meeting to give you the bitter-sweet news that I have decided to move back to Spain to be closer to family. The “bitter” part is, of course, the fact that I am leaving Florida, FCC and all of you. As I write this, I can hardly contain my tears because I am going to miss all of you and the ministry we have done together very much. Although I will still be with you in prayer and spirit, I will miss being a physical part of the body of Christ that you form here.

I have been so blessed being your associate minister these past 8+ years and appreciate the place you have given me in your hearts and in your homes. Thank you for sharing your joys and your sorrows with me and for trusting my guidance on your spiritual paths. Thank you most of all for your love and dedication to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Your generosity of time, purse and spirit has truly humbled me and I will strive to follow your example of Christian discipleship wherever I go.

Then, of course, the “sweet” part is getting to be able to see my family (especially my grandson – soon to be grandsons!) on a daily basis and be a part of their lives and activities. During their recent visit to the States, I realized just how much I was missing out on the little things (first words, first steps, first laugh) and my heart ached when they went back to Spain, knowing it would be months before I would get to see them again. I will be living 4 blocks down the same street from them and am very much looking forward to sharing my faith and love for Jesus with them as well.

After the word got out of my intended move, Glenn Kelley wrote me an email full of kindness and truth. He wrote, “For what it is worth, I believe it is the right decision.  Family and time are both precious gifts from God.  Neither should be taken for granted.” Amen to that. Please continue to take care of one another and to love each other and God with all your heat, mind, and soul.

Your sister in Christ always, Cindy