Pilgrim Group, Nov. 16

Reminder, News, and Invitation

Reminder: The next meeting of the Pilgrim Group will be held in the lower lounge at Bethel on Thursday, November 16 at 7:30 pm. As in past years, there will be no meeting in December.

News: After looking for someone to host the Group for the past two or three years, Val and Wark have decided they simply cannot do it anymore, so the November 16 meeting will be the last one they will lead. There is no one in the wings to take their place at this time. They remain hopeful that someone will step up shortly. (Val and Wark are committed to providing comprehensive background and support to the new leadership.) However, if no one is willing to take on the hosting position, the Group will need to take a break.

Invitation: Might you be the person to keep the Group going? It has been a great privilege for Val and Wark to lead the Group over the last almost 20 years, but they think it's time for new ideas, new initiatives and new pathways. The new leader does not have to be part of Bethel Mennonite Church, although if the venue continues to be Bethel, there will be some reporting and accountability to Bethel's Deacon Executive. They have been so thankful for the full support and encouragement of the Deacons, as well as of the pastors at Bethel. They expect that to continue, if the Group does.

If new leadership is not found soon, the Group will not continue, at least not in its present form. Val and Wark remain committed to connecting with their friends, and to encouraging the Church—in all its manifestations—to walk the path of full and unconditional inclusion of lgbtq+ people. As for the offshoot groups of the Pilgrim Group, the hope is that they will continue to thrive.

If you're interested in taking on this leadership (individually or as a shared role), Val and Wark would love to have a conversation with you.