Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
The Rev. Steve Bagnall has declined our call to serve as pastor at Messiah, following in-depth phone conversations with key leaders during the past week.
We thank Pastor Bagnall for his prayerful consideration of our call. We pray for God's blessings on him, his family, and those he currently serves at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Cass City, Michigan.
Messiah's Call Committee will connect as soon as possible to consider the best way forward and (given current conditions) the best time frame in which to proceed. We will also consult with our Circuit Visitor, Pastor Jason Peterson of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Rockford; we will update you as the Committee decides on the next steps in the call process and the appropriate timing.
In the meantime, please continue to keep Messiah's Church Council, call committee, staff and membership in your prayers. Again we turn to Lutheran Service Book to provide a model for our personal prayers:
O gracious Heavenly Father, You instituted the office of the public ministry, and instructed Your Church to call ministers to proclaim Your Word and faithfully administer Your Sacraments. Bless the Rev. Steve Bagnall as he continues Your ministry in Cass City.
Grant to us the continued guidance of Your Holy Spirit, along with patience, humility and trust in You. Have mercy on us and help us to call a suitable pastor according to Your will and timing, for the blessing of Your Church in this place.
Give us grace to trust You during this time of widespread illness and distress. In mercy put an end to the epidemic that afflicts this nation and the world. Grant relief to those who suffer, and comfort all that mourn. Sustain all medical personnel in their labors, and cause Your people ever to serve You in righteousness and holiness.
Hear us for the sake of Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Yours in Christ,
Jonathan Chaffer, President
Mark Altemann, Chairman, Call Committee
P. S. If you would like to read the letter Pastor Bagnall sent to us, please contact rick.krueger@messiahgr.org
