Dear Beloved Congregation,
As we gather for worship today, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your unwavering support and prayers for our ministry here at Farwell UMC. It has been a blessing to serve alongside you as your pastor, and I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to grow in faith with this wonderful community.
In light of ongoing changes within the church district and the conference, I want to share an important announcement regarding the future of my pastoral charge. Beginning July 1, for the upcoming year, my pastoral charge will be split between Farwell United Methodist Church and Rosetbush/Leaton Road United Methodist Church. This adjustment is made in partnership with the Farwell UMC Leadership Team, the Central Bay Leadership Team and the District DS, and the Appointive Cabinet of the Michigan Conference of the UMC, and it is with the goal of ensuring that both congregations continue to receive spiritual guidance, care, and leadership as they move forward.
Please know that while this change brings new dynamics to our ministry setting, my commitment to each of you remains steadfast. I am excited to continue serving in this new capacity and look forward to the continued growth of both congregations. Thank you again for your support and understanding during this transition. Your faithfulness and dedication are an inspiration to me.
Let us continue to walk together in faith, as we trust in God’s plans for our churches and for each of us.
In Christ’s love,
Rev Dr Ray Francis
Pastor, Farwell UMC & Rosebush/Leaton Road UMC