The following article was first published in the Baker Heights bulletin in December 2016 by our now-retired minister Larry Sullivan.

Transition is a challenge.

Changing preachers is an emotional process, and I can imagine that many of you are sad at the thought of the McAdams family leaving Baker Heights. Getting to know a new preacher, his family and his style of preaching is a major change. Pam and I are aware of that as we are also in the midst of transition.

Shaped by God

Our lives have been shaped by God in different ways. Pam and I have spent many years working with small congregations in a very different culture. The Baker Heights congregation is very large in comparison to most European churches. My personality and preaching style will be different than Wes’. Nonetheless, I am certain that both of our lives and our words are centered on God and doing His will.

The Voice of Trust

In looking at different examples of transition in the Bible, one stands out at this time of year. Mary, the mother of Jesus, was a young girl who faced a major challenge and the element of the unknown. Her response was, “your will be done” and we can voice that same trust and confidence in any and every situation. Transition calls for times of reflection and growth.

Our time of transition has been a struggle but also a joy. We are learning trust and patience at new levels. We are also getting to know new friends and reconnecting with ones we’ve known a long time. We are thrilled to get to know the Baker Heights family.