This Sunday the United Methodist Church I pastored for over 15 years (3 ½ in the early 80’s and 12 years from 2001-2013) is voting whether or not to disaffiliate from the United Methodist Church. I am so disappointed the people have come to this point with much division and anger. I am disappointed that the church once proud of the variety of worship offered and its inclusiveness offered to our community is now considering to move in the direction of exclusivity. I am disappointed that former friends and colleagues have visited the church to convince people to leave the denomination through half-truths and fear. I am disappointed that there are those who are prepared to destroy the great legacy this United Methodist Church has offered to Rapid City for almost 150 years.

I have chosen to stay out of the operations of my former United Methodist Church for the last 10 years, first because of continuing health struggles and second in deference to the leadership of the pastors who followed me. However, I now feel I need to say something as the vote approaches. I don’t know any other way to do that than publish this and count on you who agree with me and want to save First UMC to pass this on to others this week.

Whatever the results of the vote the damage has been done. Hearts have been broken, relationships have been fractured and the Peace of Christ has been compromised. I will pray for healing.

One more thought: You and I have had the privilege of bringing several persons into the ministry - Pastor Michele, Pastor Sharla, Pastor John, and Pastor Kori. All of us are choosing to remain United Methodists. We all love Jesus and God’s Word.