“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

I write to you today with difficult news and a heavy heart. After much prayerful discernment and discussion and in consultation with Bishop Strickland and the Church Council, Pastor Rosy has made the difficult decision to end her call here at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Her last Sunday with us will be June 11, 2023, details for which will be communicated soon.

Members of Council are, as always, available to address any questions or concerns you may have.  

Pr. Mike Bovingdon will provide any pastoral care needs and will lead worship on June 18 and 25. Pastor Andrew Lewis will serve as a Bridge Pastor for the month of July and possibly month of August. An Interim Pastor will be assigned at a later date. 

We are grateful for Pr. Rosy’s ministry and the many gifts that she shared with us, even for a short time. Please take time before she leaves and let her know how much she has meant to you, and our church. We wish her well and pray God’s rich blessings on her path. 

Holly Jones

Council President

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

May 28, 2023

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As I write this letter, it is with Ecclesiastes 3:1 echoing in my thoughts. “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” After a lengthy period of prayer and discernment, the matter I bring before you this day is my resignation as your pastor.

After journeying with you, I am thankful for your various spiritual gifts, graciousness, laughter, generosity and compassion. I am honored to have been called here by God to live and work amongst this community of faith and within the wider community of Woodstock and the Southeastern Synod.

I believe this community of faith is filled with gifted individuals, and there is much potential here to grow and bear fruit in and for God’s kingdom. I pray that you will continue to explore and act upon opportunities to live out God’s call to love and serve our neighbor within this neighborhood, community, and world.

I look forward to these final days with you as we both begin to transition into a new phase of life and discipleship. My last Sunday will be June 11, 2023.

May our loving and wise Triune God bless and guide you as you discern next steps.

In Christ’s peace,

Reverend Rosalina Rivera

cc:      Bishop Kevin Strickland

Assistant Bishop, Rev. Jonathan Hemphill

           Conference Dean, Rev. Chris Herrmansen