Dear Members and Friends of First Church,
The rippling effects of the coronavirus pandemic that started in March 2020 have been largely negative. Unintended consequences of the dramatic shutdowns and quarantines have included poor educational experiences for children, many business closures, alterations in living patterns (including the great out-migration from big cities and more-restrictive states to places like Southwest Florida), and the loneliness and isolation that has had severe emotional and mental health complications. But perhaps some positive effects have also emerged. One surprising and healthy development at First Church has been the creation of the Life Academy series of video and audio opportunities for Christian growth, and the recording studio and creative capacities that enabled this new venture. Life Academy would not have happened had we not gone through the pandemic and been forced to think and act outside the box of traditional church programming. Paul gives us this reminder in Romans 8:28—that in all situations (no matter how bad), God is at work and can bring blessings to His people.
As we move into Summer 2021, there is hope for most of us of a return to many aspects of what we knew as normalcy. Our summer schedule at First Church will be similar to Summer 2019 (with the notable exception that we will not be hosting one-week intensive Vacation Bible School for our preschool and elementary kids). The pastoral staff will take turns assisting one of our neighboring congregations, Moorings Presbyterian in Naples. While their Senior Pastor, Doug Learned, enjoys a three-month sabbatical, Pastors June, Su, Brad, and I will alternate preaching during their worship services (along with their lone Associate Pastor, Jaci Smith Patman).
Since March, we have been discussing as a congregation the proposal of Session to elevate Brad Rogers to the position of Co-Pastor with me, starting sometime early in 2022 (after he completes his doctoral program at Fuller Seminary). This summer, the elders will meet with the relevant Presbytery committee to plan the details of this transition. I am excited about this possibility, not only because I enjoy serving with Brad but because it will also allow us to move more smoothly into the future. The struggles I have witnessed so many congregations experience whenever there is a leadership transition (including a poor fit with an interim pastor, a drawn-out search process, and most catastrophically, a mismatch between pastor and church) are complications we would all like to avoid.
Toward the end of the summer, I am looking forward to a delightful four days with many of you as we hold our biennial Summer Reunion at The Cove, the Billy Graham training center near Asheville, NC. It is such a beautiful place, and the fellowship and spiritual renewal we share make it a literal “mountain top” event.
Wherever you spend your summer months, I pray God’s blessings on you and your family. We would love to have you join us weekly, either in person or online, for our Sunday worship services.
Yours in Christ,
Pastor Doug Pratt
