Thank You

July 14, 2025

Dear Members of Mt. Olive Congregation,

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. As I sit down to write these words, my heart overflows with a tapestry of emotions – gratitude, humility, joy and sadness interwoven as I reflect upon the years we have shared together. It is not an easy thing to say farewell to a congregation that has been my spiritual family, home and joy for five years. Yet, as I begin retirement from my role as your pastor, I am filled with a deep sense of thankfulness for the journey we have traveled together and for the ways God’s love has been revealed and made manifest among us.

Serving as your pastor has been one of the greatest honors and privileges of my life. From my very first Sunday with you, I was welcomed with warmth and open arms. You shared with me your joys, sorrows, celebrations and burdens. Together we welcomed new members, gathered around the Lord’s table for Holy Communion and commended loved ones to God’s eternal care. We laughed together at picnics, cried together at gravesides, prayed together in homes and hospitals and sung together in worship. These moments built a foundation of trust, love and mutual care that I will treasure for the rest of my days.

I am profoundly grateful for your faithfulness and commitment – not only to me but to one another and, most importantly, to Christ and His Church. Repeatedly, I witnessed your acts of kindness and generosity: meals delivered to those in need, cards and calls sent to the homebound, volunteers gathering for outreach projects and the steadfast support for our ministries within and beyond our church walls. Through your example, I saw Christ’s hands and feet at work in the world and my faith has been strengthened by your witness.

I am also aware that, as your pastor, I have been the recipient of God’s grace. There have been times when I failed or when my words have disappointed or hurt. I ask your forgiveness and understanding. It is a comfort to know that, in the body of Christ, we are called not to perfection but to reconciliation and growth in love.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

The Reverend Paul David Cwynar

Pastor Emeritus