A Final Message from Layne Smith
Dianne and I have been blessed and overwhelmed by the ways you have expressed your gratitude for our time together. We deeply appreciate everyone who has spoken to us. We feel that same gratitude toward you, God’s people at MPBC.
The Sunday BBQ and reception were truly delightful. Richard and Carol Pearsall, as always, went above and beyond in preparing and serving a wonderful meal, supported by several gracious helpers. The tables were beautifully arranged thanks to the creativity of Jill Kinney, Cathryn Rivers, and others. Many others helped set up and clean up. It does “take a village” to do these things. Dianne and I don’t believe we’ve ever had a poem written about us, and Kate Green’s offering was both beautiful and deeply touching. We were also moved by the kind words shared by Cathryn Rivers and Scott Crowder as they reflected on our ministry together here at MPBC. The children’s ministry, thanks to Eve Bilbrey and others, helped us remember what we are all about by passing out the “Bee’s.” Finally, David Tang and the choir gifted all of us with a beautiful benedictory blessing.
We will enjoy a fine meal at what we think is the best restaurant in upstate SC (Vangeli’s) because you gave us a generous gift card. Dianne will enjoy “shopping” for art supplies because of the gift certificate from you. Then, what can I say about the two lovely pieces of pottery that you gave to us? We will keep, treasure, and display them in our home, fondly remembering you every time we look at them.
What a party we had on Wednesday evening at Suffolk Punch! We filled the room with good conversation and laughter. Dianne and I value these kinds of opportunities to share and laugh together.
On another subject, I hope that you will continue to value and support your fine staff. They love MPBC and, like you, want the best for her.
You are a gifted people who deeply love this church. Under Nancy Hudson’s superb leadership, the Board of Deacons is thriving, and the various ministries are guided by strong, capable leaders. You have a wonderful, gifted, and trustworthy Senior Minister Search Committee that is working carefully, prayerfully, and diligently to identify and call your next Senior Minister. I believe you stand on the threshold of continued growth and meaningful impact as you work to bring to life the words of the Lord’s Prayer: “…your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” I will continue to follow your progress and pray for a bright and hopeful future as you prepare to welcome a new Senior Minister in the months ahead. I trust that you will welcome and support the Rev. Dr. Tim Moore, now serving as your Interim Senior Minister, with the same generosity and grace you have shown to me.
We have left our contact information with the church office. We would love to hear from you. And, if you’re ever up our way, we are always up for lunch or dinner!
I leave you with the same words I ended our time together in worship, May 24. These words are from Dag Hammarskjöld (second Secretary General of the United Nations) and serve as a portion of my prayer for you – For all that has been, Thanks. To all that shall be, Yes!
