August/September Newsletter

From Pastor Amy’s Desk

Dear Beloved White Oak Family,

Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

I’m writing to share something important with you regarding my upcoming schedule and ministry at White Oak. This summer I will be taking a six-week spiritual renewal leave, a time set apart for prayer, rest, and renewal.

This period of leave is provided for in the United Methodist Book of Discipline and has been prayerfully and thoughtfully approved by our District Superintendent, the Reverend Nathan Malone, as well as our Staff Parish Relations Committee and Church Council. I am deeply grateful for their support and for your continued trust in the care of our shared ministry.

The purpose of this leave is not a vacation, but a time to tend to the deeper places of my spiritual life—to reconnect, refocus, and renew the well from which I draw to serve. As your pastor, I want to be faithful not only in doing the work of ministry but also in being rooted in God’s presence and listening to His voice. Jesus often withdrew to quiet places to pray, and I seek to follow that same rhythm.

I want to assure you that you will be in excellent hands during my time away. We have secured strong, capable, and spirit-led individuals to bring the Word each Sunday and to guide the life of the church during my absence. All pastoral care needs will be fully covered, and the leadership of our church will continue forward with strength and grace.

My spiritual renewal leave will begin on Monday, August 11 and will conclude when I return, from the mission trip to Kenya. I will be back in the pulpit on Sunday, October 5^th.   I look forward to returning to you refreshed, renewed, and ready for all God has in store for our future together.

During my time away, I am honored to share that I will be traveling to Kenya to help lead a Pastors’ Conference at Gateway to Victory School, where area pastors will gather for encouragement, learning, and spiritual renewal. It is a blessing to partner in ministry with our brothers and sisters across the globe, and I carry your prayers and support with me as we grow together in God’s mission. The conference will be held at Gateway School beginning, Monday, September 22^nd- Saturday, September 27^th. My exact travel dates are waiting to be determined.

Thank you for being a church that understands the importance of spiritual rhythms. I’m honored to be your pastor, and I carry you with me in prayer as I step away for this sacred season.

With heartfelt gratitude and love,

Pastor Amy

Full newsletter can be downloaded here.