Where in the World is Pastor Beth?
Posted July 10th, 2025
Hey Church Family,
If you were in service a couple Sundays ago, you already got the heads-up—but for those of you who missed it (or just want a refresher), I wanted to share a quick overview of where I’ve been and what’s ahead.
I’ve been away for a few weeks now, and while I’ve missed being with you, I also want you to know: this time has been full, meaningful, and deeply needed.
Here’s a quick recap and a little look ahead:
Week One: Parks and Preaching
Zak and I started out with a trip to Denver, part anniversary celebration and part work trip. We had the chance to visit two national parks—Arches and Canyonlands—and they did not disappoint. It was hot, vast, stunning, and humbling in all the best ways. And there might be a few stories that will make there way into future sermons.
After that, I stepped into a very different environment: the National Church of God Convention—a gathering of churches from across the country that are part of our same movement.
I was one of the keynote speakers (still weird to type), and yes—I did show the congregation the giant poster with my face on it before I left. It was surreal and stretching, but I was so grateful for the prayers you sent with me. The Holy Spirit was upon me and I am in awe of how I was used.
Week Two: Family Vacation Mode
After the convention, we had a quick turnaround before heading out for a full family vacation. Not a work trip. Not a ministry conference. Just vacation.
We are swimming, eating too many snacks, staying up later than we should’ve, and are remembering what it feels like to breathe deeply together as a family. It is good and grounding.
Week Three: Prayer & Vision
And soon, I'll be heading into week three— back to work, but not available—to you all. I’ve carved out time for a personal prayer and visioning retreat—to make myself available to God and ask God what’s next for our congregation, for our leadership, and for me.
It’s a quieter kind of work. But it’s vital.
I’m asking God for clear eyes and an open heart—for courage to lead faithfully, and ears tuned to the Spirit’s whisper. I’m praying with you and for you, even as I’m away from the regular Sunday rhythm.
While I’ve Been Away…
You’ve been in incredibly capable hands.
Praise & Worship Sunday + Student Sunday kicked things off with joy and power (and I heard from many of you how moving it was—thank you, Alicia and team!).
Ms. Debra launched our Good Fruits series on July 6th, helping us take a deeper look into the fruit of the Spirit and what it means to live a life that reflects God’s character.
Kayla Neal will be preaching this Sunday, continuing that same series with fresh insight and passion. Don’t miss it.
This church is not built on one person. That’s by design. You’ve been entrusted to some incredible voices and leaders over these past few weeks—and I’ve loved seeing the way you’ve leaned into that.
Thanks for holding space for me to step away, rest, listen, and return. I’m excited to be back with you soon—with new energy, fresh vision, and maybe a story or two from the trail.
With grace,
Pastor Beth
