Beth's Blogs

Dear Beth,

You talk to a lot of our members. Do you think we are ready for a called pastor?

Just Wondering

Yes and no. Just as we await Christ’s birth, we are waiting for a called pastor. Some of us (particularly the kids) can hardly wait for Christmas; others of us are anxious because we have so much to do to prepare. I expect our congregation runs the gamut of emotions during this time of transition. We may not have to wait much longer as the Pastor Nominating Committee (PNC) is now traveling to hear and interview the finalists in our search for the called pastor. Please pray for the PNC’ers as they travel and find our match. Also pray for those they interview.

Hi Beth,

How can we be ready for a new pastor?

Looking Ahead

I think that the best preparation for this event in our church’s life is to have an open heart, open mind, and open dialogue. Our new pastor will not be a clone of Kasey or a direct opposite of Kasey. He or she will be his/her own person with his/her vision. Together we will be partners as we discern our future together. I truly believe the best is yet to be at RUC! I find these next couple of months will be an exciting time to be part of the RUC family!

My Dear Beth,

I want to make travel plans and I hear that the 40th Anniversary Committee has planned an event a month. Will you please let us know when and where?

Ready to Party

I2007 is the 40th anniversary of the founding of Rockville United Church (RUC) and Community Ministries of Rockville (CMR). The committee has met twice and is busy firming up the dates and events. I am a risk taker so I’ll list what we propose and know; we’ll be meeting again later this month and will try to firm up the rest. If we have to change any of these dates or themes, please don’t hold it against us too long!

Children of all ages are invited to all events!

Dear Beth,

How are your parents?

Caring Carl

This is the question I am asked the most! This is a bittersweet time for our family. My parents, who are in their 90’s, now live in a nursing home in Ohio. My husband John and I have been flying in about once a month to spend several days with them. They are frailer each time we visit. We are blessed that they have had a wonderful, productive life. They have worked hard and played even harder---a wonderful model for all of us! They loved to dance and arranged for ballroom dancing lessons for the whole town; today they struggle to walk with assistance. They are getting their affairs in order and intending to leave us soon. I really thank you for your care, concern, and support! It feels so good to feel loved by you all.

Dear Readers,

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all! 2007 promises to be an exciting year for RUC as we celebrate our 40 years in this community and we look forward to a new pastor and a new vision of showing God’s love and hope in this community and the world. May you have all of God’s blessings!

Love and cheers,

Beth

Readers with questions should write Beth Pattison, President of RUC Church Council, at BPattison@RockvilleUnitedChurch.org, ask her directly, or leave the question in her mailbox at RUC.