I have appreciated being in ministry with you all over the past few Months - worshiping together, making pastoral visits, meeting with the Diaconate.

While I have been impressed by the fine and ordered way the Diaconate, and the full congregation, has dealt with the current challenge facing the Shawomet Baptist Church, I am saddened by the very necessity decision to close the church.

This decision, I feel, has not been made lightly. It, in fact, has been a long time coming. And much has been done by many people to rectify the situation. But nothing seems to have worked, turning the church around and filling the pews.

While I am saddened by this closing, I am sure that all of you are far sadder than I am. After all, you are losing your church building and the faith community where you were dedicated, baptized, sang in the choir, taught Sunday School, worshiped and prayed, were married and from which you buried your loved ones.

Think of the relationships that will be lost. Think of the history of faithful service that is coming to a close. Think of the memories you are leaving behind. Think of the people who used to be here and those who are still here.

This is real grief - grief that manifests itself in five phases: Shock (“Oh, my gosh, where did this come from?”), denial (Surely, this cannot be happening; not to us”), anger (“Who is to blame for all this?”); bargaining (“Surely, there must be something that we can do to reverse this situation”)’ acceptance (“I guess we just have to accept it; facts are facts”).

As with other expressions of grief, we tend to float back and forth, through the first four phases, while flirting with the fifth - acceptance. On one day, we are still in shock, while thinking there has to be a way to stop and reverse this process. Another day, we are angry at the world for not flocking to our beautiful church and wondering who is to blame, while also wondering what else we, or someone, could do.

Somehow, by God’s grace and mercy, in God’s good time, we come around to acceptance. May this happen for all of us. But please remember, if and when you want to unburden yourself and share your concerns and raise questions, please call me. I am more than willing to listen (480-2309).

Also, if and when you desire some discussion about it, or some assistance in, HOW TO MOVE ON AND HOW TO FIND A NEW CHURCH HOME, please call me. We can talk one-on-one over the phone, or face-to-face following worship or in your home. Or, we can discuss all of this in small groups, at a most convenient time.

Pastor Glenn Ramsey