Pastoral Letter from Father Bernie and Father Lee

We continue to hold our siblings in Christ from St. Martin's in our prayers and hearts as Father Bernie prepares to end his ministry with them.

October 14, 2021

A Pastoral Letter

Friends in Christ,

I would like us all to read the below letter from the Rector of St. Martin's. As we continue to welcome them into our midst and work together to further God's Kingdom, let us be mindful of the additional level of grief that Fr. Bernie's departure will bring to our siblings in Christ. I know that we will continue to reach out to the people of St. Martin's with love and compassion in this difficult time for them because that is who we are.

Blessings to each of you, and prayers for our new and extended family.


Fr. Lee+

Father Bernie prepares to end his ministry with St. Martin's

Dear St. Martin Family,

This letter is written to you with emotions of sadness and hopefulness. The sadness my heart feels is the decision to end my ministry with you as Rector. The feeling of hopefulness is that God is bringing you to a greater experience of being Church than you could have asked or imagined.

I have served as your Pastor well beyond the national average of a Rector’s tenure. My promise to the people of St. Martin and the Bishop during these uncertain times was to remain with you until a new parish home was found. Today, I am confident that joining ministries with St. Mary Magdalene is of God. Therefore, it is now time for me to relinquish my leadership, allowing for the next steps of prosperity to take place.

The work of ministry before the parishioners of Sts. Mary Magdalene and Martin will require leadership skills and Spiritual gifts that another priest could better provide. However, God is not yet done with this servant. I have been called to minister to another community which will better utilize the strengths I am given to serve the Gospel of Christ. Beginning on Sunday, November 28th, I begin my ministry as Associate Rector with the parish of St. Paul’s, Delray Beach. The three weeks prior to that time, I will take a much-needed vacation.
Fr. Lee Davis and the people of St. Mary Magdalene are graciously welcoming us into their family to blend as one community of faith. The leadership of both parishes have been working together to create a new path forward. Fr. Lee is a compassionate pastor, a smart leader, and a strong visionary. His energy and pastoral heart will serve you very well. He has my full trust and confidence.

The past 23+ years have been very fruitful in the relationships we have fostered and the ministry we have accomplished. Sylvia, our children and I have traveled together with you a long road of life. The friendships we have developed over the years will be deeply missed but never forgotten. You will remain in our hearts and prayers.
Finally, I offer a deep loving gratitude to all of you who throughout the years have walked the path of Christian faith with me and my family. To the Vestry leadership, ministry volunteers, and staff, thank you for all you have given and continue to give.

Please remember… Jesus who leads us forward will bless our steps along the way.

In His Love and Faithfulness,

Fr. Bernie+

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