Welcome!

Pastor's Perspective: Getting to know you...

Over the next few months I will be getting to know the people of Saint Paul's and the surrounding community. I've learned a little bit already and from this initial experience I think that you are a wonderful congregation in a wonderful place. I am happy to be here.

You probably know that I'm only here part time (about 20 hours per week). The process of settling in may take some time. Here are some things that I want to underline as we begin our work together.

Every week will be a little different because as the pastoral needs of the congregation and the ebb and flow with the seasons, so will my schedule.

Generally, I will be at the church and in the Saint Paul's area on Thursday and Friday. If there is a need to be present at another time, then I'll adjust my schedule as best I can.

Generally, I will lead worship on the first, second and third Sundays of each month. If there is a fifth Sunday, I will try to be present at that service also. However, because of some prior commitments I will not be at Saint Paul's on May 19th and June 9th.

My priorities as your interim pastor are to provide pastoral care, lead worship on a regular basis, assist the Congregation Council as they prepare to call a new pastor, and other visitation as time permits. As you can imagine, that is a lot to do in only 20 hours a week.

Here is one way that you can help me. I'll set the stage by telling you a little story.

One time when I was serving a congregation in New Jersey, I was visiting a member in the hospital. As we visited a priest came in the room to visit the person in the other bed. The patient immediately began to complain to the priest, "Father, I've been here three days and you didn't get to see me until now?" The priest replied back, "Good God woman! People think that we are supposed to be God, but we are not. I don't know you are here unless you tell me!"

Please tell me if you need pastoral care. That is the only way I will know. You can call the church office; call my phone (410-810-3916) or send me an E-mail to pastor@stpaulscordova.org. I'll do whatever I can to assist you.

I'm not the only one with more on the plate. The Congregation Council and committees will also be picking up additional responsibilities. When President Diana Hurd or a member of the Council asks for some help, please serve as you are able.

If we work as a team, Saint Paul's will thrive—just has it has for these many, many years.

God's blessings in Christ,
Pastor Sinnott