I have had the privilege to serve as the interim minister at the Christian Church of Woodland (Disciples of Christ) for the past year.

I have been blessed to serve this congregation through new births, celebrations of life well lived, the 170th anniversary of the congregation, and into their next season of ministry.

Over this year of ministry, I have gotten to know this community much better than I had before. I must admit, Woodland did surprise me a bit. I have found that this community strikes an incredible balance of being a tight-knit community that cares deeply about its people and being a warm and welcoming place for those new to its community. Something I think most of the places I’ve been aren’t always good at balancing.

As I have engaged with the other religious leaders, members of the church, folks out and about on Main St, police officers, city workers, and many more people in this city, I have noticed that whether or not they are particularly religious people, the sentiment of “love your neighbor as yourself” is one that I have truly felt in my time here.

There are always folks leaning into ways to keep the sense of community that the people of Woodland have obviously had for much of its history. I think there is a lot to learn from the community in Woodland about how we can make history an important part of our lives and keep a hand extended to help lift up those who are new to the story.

The storied history of this city, and the way that folks know and learn about it, is incredible, and it is clear that this community knows that Woodland is the way it is because of the people and the community that is built. Not just a static history, but one that is alive!

Woodland has been good to me, and it will always hold a place in my heart. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to minister in this community, even if only for a short time. So until next time, farewell, my good and faithful Woodland!