Collaborative Ministry -

A Pastoral Letter as we Return to Routines and All That Is New!

August 29, 2024

Greetings,

This morning, I wrote a pastoral note to the folk of Sackville United Church, as much out of my own need, as for what I imagined their needs may be as we begin this Collaborative Ministry Project with you. This afternoon, I felt a need to write to you.

The weeks since my return from vacation have had me focused on all that needed to be done for that which was to come… and I’ve not been very attentive to what was changing, even ending is some ways. I am glad I took a few moments to do that this morning!

Beginning September 1st, as part of the Collaborative Ministry Project, I will be dividing my time, attention and care three ways as I become responsible with Julia for two additional communities of faith - I am losing my full-time focus on this one community of faith – and that is a loss…

But it is also new and exciting. I and they, and you, we all together, have an opportunity to develop new relationships with Julia and the folk of two other congregations! We have an opportunity to explore new ways of being Church and doing ministry! And my excitement far outweighs any sadness I have had!

Friends in faith, there is so much possibility in all that lies before us!

Friends in faith, and I don’t say that lightly, friends with whom I expect to share moments of profound loss and grief, friends who I hope to laugh with, friends, a community whom God has brought together, let us trust that God will be with be with us in all that is unseen and unknown.

Let us trust one another – for in trust – Love is made known and manifest!

Just this afternoon (Thursday if you are keeping track), I met with the Office
Administrators of each of the three congregations (Julia was busy working on the liturgy on Sunday). We asked questions, created solutions and laughed – and the mystery of Love, God was present!

In longing for shared spirituality that goes deep; in gratitude for the bold discipleship of these three communities of faith; and in pursuit of daring justice that contributes to the common good of all… we step into the future… together!

May it be so!

Lloyd and Julie
Ministry Team

As the Ministry Team enters into new work patterns and expectations, be assured that they will strive to respond to requests for visits and meetings in as timely and efficient a manner as possible.

For the next few weeks, as they settle in, Lloyd plans to be in Moncton on Mondays and Thursday afternoon (and evenings as needed), and Sackville otherwise.

Julia will normally be in Sackville on Tuesdays and in Moncton otherwise. Lloyd will normally be in Sackville on Wednesdays.

Of course, as situations arise these plans may change, but if you are wishing to schedule an in-person meeting or visit, please keep these days in mind. Lloyd and Julia will both take Fridays and Saturdays off and alternate being available to respond to emergencies on these days.

- Contact Julia by email or call/text 647-835-2767
- Contact Lloyd by email or call/text 506-940-1151

Collaborative Ministry

Julia Ye

Lloyd Bruce

Ministry Team

Collaborative Ministry Pilot Project Commission