Goodbyes are never easy. I clearly remember the day that Amber and I dropped off our daughter, Emma, at Ferris State University. We spent the morning loading up the van with all of her stuff, driving a couple hours up to her dorm, and then unloading the van and setting up her room. She was on the fourth floor and there was no elevator or air conditioning. It was a lot of trips from the car to the room and back again, but we were so excited as she began this new adventure.

As we pulled away, leaving our baby at the school, Amber and I cried. We were sad because we loved seeing Emma every day. She is a joy and her absence from the home would be felt. But we were also really happy because we knew that she was going to have a great time and thrive at FSU.

This transition out of ministry at New Day into a new adventure carries similar feelings. Amber and I have loved our time at New Day. We have literally grown up here. We have learned so much, made lifelong friends, and grown in our relationship with Jesus through this church. We have especially loved our time serving at New Day Vandalia. The hospitality, encouragement, grace, and love of the Vandalia community has been overwhelming. Just one visible instance was the awesome celebration parade last year after I graduated from seminary. I received encouraging cards, hugs, and gifts—all my favorite things: Diet Mountain Dew, Skittles, and the largest box of Star Wars-themed ziploc bags that I have ever seen. We are still working our way through those bags!

I also want to take this opportunity to publicly thank Pastor Cameron. His leadership, encouragement, mentoring, and trust has meant the world to me. Cameron has shaped my faith and my ministry probably more than anyone else. Paul, in 1 Corinthians 11:1, says: “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” And Cameron has been this for me. I have seen Cameron faithfully and passionately follow Christ, and I have gladly followed him to grow personally and to help his vision for New Day succeed. Cameron, thank you so much for everything. I would not be who or where I am today without you.

Thank you to our New Day family. Amber and I are going to miss you so much! We are confident that God has awesome things in store for you. We are excited to see how you continue to bear witness of the goodness of Jesus in your community. We carry with us all that we learned from you about community, hospitality, passion for God, and humble service. You are amazing!