Dear Members and Friends,
This morning, Rev. Ed Thompson shared his plans to retire at the end of December. I want to follow up with you. Rev. Ed’s upcoming retirement gives the congregation the opportunity to celebrate his ministry this fall.
Rev. Ed’s announcement may come as a shock, especially given how he and the choir shared a wonderful worship service this past Sunday. His cantata, Seeking Home, was deeply meaningful, and I heard from many people how deeply moved they were—and how grateful they are for Rev. Ed’s ministry. There is no question that Rev. Ed has served as a creative and stabilizing presence for this congregation through the decades. His upcoming departure from the staff provides an opportunity to celebrate his ministry, express gratitude, and say goodbye.
A good goodbye is a gift, a gift I know that Rev. Ed and so many of you want to offer one another. I have come to know his beautiful spirit and have enjoyed collaborating with him on the worship services here. I have also witnessed his pastoral presence and can only imagine how many people he has touched and blessed. He will be dearly missed after December.
It can be tempting to begin worrying about and rushing into planning for what comes next for the fabulous music program that Rev. Ed has directed. Instead, notice what feelings come up within you. Is there any way you’d like to honor your feelings?
Rev. Ed will be in worship this Sunday, May 12, and on May 26. He had already arranged to be away the rest of the Sundays of this worship year. He will return for Homecoming on September 8, and we will have four months to celebrate his ministry over these last 46 years.
As your transitional senior minister, I will walk with you through this significant transition. I will create an inclusive process to move forward the next chapter of this congregation’s fabulous music program. I am available to you if you wish to talk as are Rev. Jim Francek and the Chaplains.
May we hold on to our joy and gratitude for Rev. Ed as we acknowledge the sadness that comes with knowing that his ministry with UU Westport will come to an end at the end of calendar year.
Warmly,
Alan
