On this Valentine's Day, our hearts are filled to overflowing with love for our friend and Pastor, Dale Osborne. As you are aware, after 27 (that's TWENTY SEVEN!) years as one of the ministers at Binkley, Dale has decided to step away to pursue other opportunities. In his letter to the congregation he summed up his discernment this way; " Discussions began years ago as I attempted to discern how I could continue to offer a vigorous and energetic level of ministerial leadership at the church I love and respect." (Read the full letter here .) Dale has offered his gifts in ministry to every generation in our congregation but particularly his care for our young people is substantial; and in return their affection for him is deep and wide. As nearly three decades of youth "alumni" and their parents attest, Dale is Pastor in every true sense of that word.

In the next few weeks all of us will have ample opportunity to express our appreciation for Dale's outstanding and loyal service to God through Binkley's ministries. I'm pleased to inform you that on  March 22nd  a festive post-worship celebration of Dale's ministry will occur in our Fellowship Hall. Additionally, our preacher for the morning service will be  Rev. April Baker , who is no stranger to Binkley! April is one of the ministers at Glendale Baptist Church in Nashville, TN, another of our Alliance of Baptists partner congregations.

At the Church-in-Conference scheduled for this Sunday (Feb. 16) we will hear a recommendation from Human Resources and Church Council about continuing financial support for Dale as he transitions to new endeavors. 

Transitions in our lives and in the communal life of congregations are constant (even if well-disguised or not so apparent). However, some pivots are watershed moments that allow for reflection combined with immense gratitude---this is one of those times at Binkley. I have asked Dale to preach this Sunday so he can share with all of us his faithful listening to God's continuing call upon his life. Let us uphold all the Osbornes with our prayers and loving support. Suzy, Hannah, Lydia, and Jacob have spent their lives in and around Binkley's mission to our community and have given of themselves in innumerable ways to ministry for which we are all grateful.

With trusting confidence in God's good future for both Dale and for our congregation, we affirm the words of Swedish diplomat, Dag Hammarskjold:  "For all that has been, thanks! For all that will be, Yes!" 

With affection for you,

Your Pastor

Marcus W. McFaul