Rev. Theresa Mason
tmason@umcneb.org

A Message from the Pastor...

Last week, this congregation made a significant decison that may impact this church for
years to come. Church leaders and representatives chose to accept to be in the
Pathways to the Six Signs Program.

One of the first things that the leaders Rev. Dr. Jesse Foster, Rev. Nita Hinds-Park, and our District Superintendent, Dr. Harold Backus made clear in presenting this process for the church to consider, is that the reason why this congregations was invited to be a part of this process, was because of the strengths and potential of the Wood River Congregation. I agree with them. Soon after I came last year, I discovered that this congregation has wonderful members and effective leaders, deeply committed to God, and to serving the mission of Jesus Christ.

After Rev. Foster and Rev. Hinds-Park outlined the Pathways process, and told us about the resources, training, and coaching they could offer us, one of the members said, "I think this is an answer to prayer." When he said that I thought, "Gosh, that's what I was just thinking to myself." I looked around and saw other people nodding too. I'm not sure where the process will lead, but when God answers prayer, I've learned that I need to trust where that will lead. I'm excited about this process, I ask you for your prayers for our congregation, for all in this congregation who will be leaders in this process, and for me as we engage in this.

Pastor Theresa Mason

Updated October 9, 2011