Nine years at Richview

Nine years ago, I started as pastor of Richview. My daughter was three. I didn't have a son yet. We were young and I had more hair and was skinnier too.

We've been through a lot together. God has used Richview to shape my life in all kinds of ways. It's home for us. These people are my family.

Some friends have been writing about the things they love about their church at my friend Paul's blog. Ken, one of my favorite pastors, submitted one about his church the other day. I've also written one and I think it may appear at Paul's blog tomorrow. Hope so!

I can't believe it's been nine years. Thanks, Richview, for your grace and love. I'm looking forward to what's coming next.

Comments

[Steve K.]

Darryl, Congrats on your 9 years at Richview! It's people like you that help me maintain the last vestige of hope I have in the institutional church. It's weak and it's thin, but it's still there. Thanks for sharing your journey and for being faithful where you are. Shalom, Steve K.

[Bene D]

Steve, that was well put. I can't pretend to understand why some are called to stay and labour inside some denominations, it has to be a very hard and terrible place at times - lighting the candle instead of cursing the darkness. I can't pretend to know the sacrifices and loss lay or clergy who chose to stay in their chosen mineshaft endure. That some don't lose their humanity or their hope is a testament to how merciful and powerful God is. Congratulations on your nine years Darryl, for your embracing of the family of God, and for letting the rest of us see how you love one another. Lord God, in your loving kindness You sent your Son to be our shepherd and guide. Continue to bless Darryl and Charlene in this vineyard as they sustain and direct your people. Let your Spirit uphold them as they accept their responsibility sheparding among the people of Richview. Be their guide. We ask through Christ our Lord.