A Letter from Lindy Feb 15

Hello Pilgrim,

I am delighted to finally introduce you to the search committee’s recommended candidate for the position of Associate Minister for Faith Formation, Rev. Greyson Kentopp. I say finally because, as you know, we have been on this journey for quite some time, beyond what was expected. I am grateful for the perseverance of our dedicated team, who found the reserves to reboot for search phase 2. Grateful that they did, as their commitment brought us to this moment. 

Please surround with a deep well of gratitude this wonderful group of Pilgrims: Co-chairs, Sam Williams and Ally Hawkins; Brandy Jones Neelam; Tiffany Ellis; Charlie Clotfelter; Hannah Hansard; Nathan Olawsky; Beth Bowling and Richard Whitaker. I list their names in this order as all of the Pilgrims before Beth’s name served both iterations of the search process, some well past their tenure on respective boards. Thank you, thank you, we would not be here without your tireless effort!

I reached out to Greyson for a little help in providing you a brief introduction, so in his own words: 

Greyson Kentopp is an ordained minister in the UCC who explored his early sense of call through a ministerial internship with Pilgrim UCC from 2015-2017. Formed by the congregation’s commitment to social justice and community care, Greyson went on to receive his Master of Divinity from Yale Divinity School, where he studied Latinx, Black, and Queer liberation theologies. He has worked in congregational and social work settings. As a transgender man, Greyson is passionate about reclaiming Christian faiths that honor diversity and authenticity, hold space for doubts and questions, and listen for God’s still-speaking voice in the realities of our lives.

grace and peace,

Pastor Lindy

(she/her)  Pronouns matter

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Although I wanted my letter to highlight Rev. Kentopp, I also promised the Deacons that I would bring to your attention the Little Food Pantry’s need for replenishment. The demand has remained consistent, so our shelves empty on a regular basis. Weekly, the deacons take what is dropped off on Sundays and restock. We are imagining new ways to keep this food need in the front chambers of our hearts, so that it becomes a memory muscle that we respond to like habit. For now, please hear this appeal to help augment our offering to our community.

grateful,

Pastor Lindy (and the Board of Deacons)