Then the one seated on the throne said, “Look! I’m making all things new.” He also said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”
Revelation 21:5
Today marks the beginning of another new chapter. It’s nine months into Rebekah’s retirement, and once again I find myself handing her a packed lunch and a flask of coffee as she heads off to work.
Rebekah wasn’t looking, and she didn’t have an up-to-date résumé; but she was paying attention to the Holy Spirit, and when the call came she immediately felt a tug in her heart and soul.
Of course, this is different from Pensacola, or Brandon, or Wake Forest. We won’t be packing up and moving, she won’t be the permanent installed pastor looking to craft a long-term ministry, and I will still keep my membership at Hudson Memorial in Raleigh.
Officially, then, Rebekah has been called to serve as “Bridge Interim Pastor and Head of Staff” for First Presbyterian Church in Wilson, North Carolina. It’s a strong, vital, positive church with a 137-year history of faithful witness and service in the community.
What is a “Bridge” pastor:
Rebekah asked the pastor search team exactly what they mean by “Bridge” Interim as opposed to the traditional understanding of “Interim”. They replied that they didn’t exactly know, but it sounded like a great idea. She then asked the Presbytery (New Hope) for a working definition. “We don’t really know,” they said, “but it sounds like a great idea”!!!!
Her plan, with God’s help, is to provide love, encouragement, inspiration, pastoral care, and stability between now and when the church calls its next leader.
I will go to worship with Rebekah Sunday mornings, and try to be generally present as much as possible, and she will drive over to Wilson three more days a week.
I can’t wait for this coming Sunday, when I can worship with the good people of Wilson, get to know some more of the beautiful saints who make up The Body of Christ, and help Rebekah celebrate her first Sunday with a new community.
From here, it’s a 50-minute drive. If anyone wants to be at First Presbyterian Church in Wilson and listen to Rebekah preach for the first time since August 1, services are at 8:45 (“Early Light” in Clark Hall) and 11:00 in the sanctuary. Plus, I hear they have a pipe organ, and someone who knows how to play it too!
The faithful love of the Lord never ends!
Lamentations 3:22-23
His mercies never cease.
Great is his faithfulness;
his mercies begin afresh each morning.
In love, and because love both directs our paths and empowers us to serve – DEREK
Here are a few photos from my last visit to Wilson:
Our senior & associate pastors both left in March 2020! We had a bridge pastor from April – Aug. Then interim/transitional pastor Margaret LaMotte Torrence. From Sept 2020 to May 22, 2022. THEN another interim pastor. Hopefully we’ll have our very own senior pastor very soon. God bless Rebekah & others that fill this void for whatever the reason. It is so important to stabilize the congregate, help them heal, if needed and accept the change and move forward.. Thank you for sharing her journey with us.
That’s right. Margaret‘a dad started Wake Forest. Then my friend Craig Miller is coming in now. Blessings on the journey 🙏🙏
Thank you!!!
So glad to hear that such a gifted and wonderful servant will be shining God’s light, again, for an ever growing audience of worshippers! You GO, Pastor Rebekah!!
I knew she couldn’t stay away for long. She has the spirit in her and it wants out! You will enjoy your time with her she’s a very good Pastor and preacher.
Jim Wills
The people there will be so blessed as will you. Prayers for all and congrats.