Pastor Patricia’s Pauses

July 2020

Here we are, already in June! It seems appropriate at this time to reflect on the year that we have had here at FUMC – Douglas.

Just one year ago, around this time, I was in discussion with our District Superintendent, Jeff Rainwater, about me getting a church. Jeff and I discussed how Douglas was looking for a pastor and wondered if I would be interested in it. As I have often said, I don’t mind driving as I grew up in St. Louis, MO. We would drive an hour just to go to our favorite mall! Driving also gives me some quiet time to reflect on my day and wind down a bit.

We started off slowly as I was considered a “supply pastor” until August 16, 2019. I needed to wrap up my private practice. People have asked me if I miss practicing obstetrics and gynecology and the answer is a definite “NO!” Don’t get me wrong. I loved taking care of women and especially delivering babies. But after 25 years of it, especially dealing with the insurance companies and pharmacies, I knew that my time was over. As I sit here today, I rarely think of myself as a physician. Now I’m more of a student of ministry – learning everyday how to function as a pastor.

And the people of Douglas, WY have welcomed me with open arms, I feel incredibly happy with my decision to come here. I’ve needed some encouraging as I have ventured into the worship space in a different capacity than I had previously been in. There were mistakes – when I randomly would change the order of the service. But you all took it in stride and rolled with me!

I’m especially grateful for all the people on One Church Council, our Finance Committee and Jo, our office manager. You all have helped me tremendously with my transition from doctor to pastor.

I would have never predicted how this year has ended. Not being in worship since mid-March has been difficult on all of us. However, we adapted. We learned about our own flexibility. The online Facebook Sermons were not the same as in person – but at least they were something.

Looking forward to next year, I hope we all transition back to in church services. July 12 is our goal start date for our first in church service post Covid-19. I really want everyone to feel comfortable returning, so we have put together a comprehensive plan to return. If you don’t feel comfortable returning right away, I hope you will still view the sermon online. Hopefully, by the Fall we will be able to go back to life as it was before Covid-19. Time will tell.

In closing, thank you all for a great first year as a “young” pastor. I hold you all dearly in my heart and in my prayers every day!