I can remember way back when I was in 2nd grade, the show M*A*S*H began its successful run on TV. I can also remember not quite understanding the storylines or humor (especially Klinger in a dress!). Over its 11-year run, I grew to deeply appreciate Hawkeye’s sharp wit as well as the rest of the characters nuances which consistently made this a #1 show. I was in college when the final episode – “Goodbye, Farewell, and Amen” – aired and vividly recall that it was one of the most watched shows in all of television history. Perhaps you watched it, too. Part of the plotline was BJ’s difficulty and refusal to say goodbye to his best friend, Hawkeye, when they were headed home after the war was declared over. After literally being in the trenches day after day, week after week, he wasn’t emotionally prepared to bid farewell to this person who had come to mean so much to him. I get it. I really do. -- You and I have had 6+ years together (not counting my previous interim service), and now it is time that we must bid farewell to one another. My impending retirement brings that same mixture of emotions. Like in M*A*S*H, we’ve certainly weathered some storms … we’ve lost dear members, we’ve faced financial challenges, and we’ve had some changes in personnel along the way. The COVID pandemic necessitated us worshipping in some very creative ways (beep, beeping to each other in the parking lot to “share the peace” and offer a “benediction blessing”) and streaming worship on a weekly basis. (Things I never learned in seminary = how to become a YouTube star.) We’ve also had many laughs, particularly at the women’s retreats; we’ve been uplifted countless times in worship and song; we’ve welcomed numerous babies through Baptism, youth through Confirmation, and adults into membership; we’ve shared good meals, soup suppers, and ice cream through our summer socials; we’ve cared for one another, and we’ve done some good ministry together (feeding the hungry & caring for foster youth/families to name two things)! All these things I will carry with me as this new chapter called “retirement” begins. Chris and I are hoping to travel more (a trip to Germany is already on the calendar for December) and to visit various family members who live in other states. My intention is to serve as a chaplain in a part-time capacity and, of course, to keep working at Premise Maid on Mondays in order to feed my chocolate habit. LOL! (Come see me!) Be assured, my dear members, that you will remain in my heart and that I will always look to our time together at New Jerusalem with much affection. I am extremely grateful for the relationships we have forged over these years and pray that our loving God will continue to bless you with meaningful work to do in Christ’s name.  “Goodbye, Farewell, and Amen.” Pastor Lisa K. Borrell