October/November Newsletter

From Pastor Amy’s Desk

From the Pastor’s Heart: A Season of Renewal and Gratitude

by Pastor Amy

Dear White Oak Family,

I want to begin by expressing my deep gratitude for the gift of time away for Spiritual Renewal Leave. What a blessing it has been to step aside for a season; to breathe, to listen, and to allow God to renew my spirit. Your support and prayers made this time possible, and I return to you with a heart filled with peace and gratitude.

During these past weeks, I experienced renewal in so many ways. I enjoyed intentional time with my family, finding a new rhythm of prayer and quiet with God. I even began horseback riding lessons, something that was both exhilarating and deeply therapeutic. Those moments in the saddle became a tangible lesson in faith: learning what I could control, letting go of what I could not, and trusting the gifts that God has already placed within me.

I have learned there is something sacred in the art of horseback riding—a rhythm of trust and grace shared between humans and horses. Riding Lady Mercedes, a beautiful Tennessee Walker, has been a lesson in balance, humility, and awe. With her smooth gate and gentle spirit, she reminds me that strength and gentleness can dwell together. Each ride is a conversation without words, and a partnership built on trust and respect. In her steady stride, I see the handiwork of our Creator God, who crafted such majestic creatures to teach us patience, courage, and the quiet joy of moving in harmony with His creation. I am grateful to Cindy the owner and my instructor/counselor at Hearts & Hooves Horse Therapy in Soddy Daisy, TN.

This season also brought moments of deep grief and grace. I walked with families through the loss of our beloved members Mrs. Evelyn Wolff and Connie Doyle, and I continued to grieve the passing of my dear friend, Wetherly Kennedy. In each of these sacred moments, God reminded me again that faith is not passive—it is a movement. It is trust in the unseen, and it is gratitude even when our hearts are tender.

One of the greatest blessings of this time was traveling to Kericho, Kenya to teach at the Pastors Conference hosted by Gateway to Victory School. Standing alongside fellow ministers and sharing God’s Word was a humbling and joy-filled experience. I went to pour out what I could, but I returned feeling that I had received even more than I gave.

I carried Wetherly in my heart, as she had planned to go with me to help the teachers at Gateway. I honored Wetherly in my teaching to the pastors and celebrated Wetherly by loving everyone and sharing joy. 

Wetherly left so much joy with the children and families of Gateway last February and I am forever grateful for Chuck & Cris Darsey who not only introduced me to the ministry and family of Gateway to Victory School but have also traveled with me each time. God has used Chuck & Cris to open my heart, expand my heart and help to heal my heart. We are always Better Together!

 My time away renewed my faith and deepened my understanding that wholeness is found in gratitude—not only in physical healing or answered prayers, but in the quiet, steady trust that God is with us in every step, every season, and every breath.

Thank you, White Oak family, for the grace to rest, reflect, and return refreshed. I am so grateful to serve alongside you as we continue to grow in faith, hope, and love—trusting that God is

always doing a new thing among us.

With love and deep appreciation,
Pastor Amy

Full newsletter can be downloaded here.