By Rev. Joe Zarro, Interim Senior Minister
As I get ready for my first Sunday at BCCUCC, I’m reminded of the quote from the great Stoic philosopher Seneca – and the 90s alternative band Semisonic – “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.” This is the nature of change, transition and new beginnings. Some of us are going through more routine transitions in our lives, such as summer break giving way to school and fall. Others are going through bigger changes and transitions: Personally, I just moved across the country and am starting a new call. And collectively, as a church, we are in a season of transition after the long and faithful service of Rev. Dr. Dale Azevedo. This is my beginning as your interim minister, but many of you have been experiencing loss and transition since his retirement announcement in January. The transition starts well before the interim minister arrives.
I’m excited and honored to be a pastor and leader during this time of change. Throughout this process you’re going to hear a lot about how this is an opportunity for creativity and new possibilities, for Resurrection and New Beginnings, but first I want to name and honor the endings that come with every new beginning. This is why my approach is not to shake things up right away, or act like the expert with a tried-and-true handbook. I want to listen and learn, and understand what makes BCC unique, and what are its authentic and faithful hopes for the future. This is why these Welcome Meetings are important and I’m grateful for those who have already signed up (visit calendly.com/jdzarro to schedule a short meeting with me or write me an email/call).
We are an Easter people, and I have deep faith in the power of Resurrection and transformation. I know God is living, moving and still speaking, and uses these times of loss and change to bring forth something new. God will use this transition for the good. But it is also wise and healthy to acknowledge the endings that come with each new beginning.
Yours in Christ,
Rev. Joe