Let's begin!

Friends of Eastport United Methodist Church,

July 1 marks the beginning of my seventh year as your pastor here at Eastport United Methodist. Can you believe it?

It feels like just yesterday I was stepping into this space, doesn't it? Back in 2019. And wow, looking back now, so much has shifted. So much has grown. And truly, so much has simply… flourished.

We’ve walked through some wild, unprecedented times together, haven't we? Faced down challenges that felt, at times, immense. And yet, through it all, there was this unwavering faith. This deep, quiet courage. And so many joys—oh, so many joys—that we got to celebrate, side by side. Every single step of the way, your dedication, your love, your unwavering commitment has been this constant, beautiful source of inspiration for me. It really has.

I find myself incredibly proud when I think about the work we've done. You know, this deep, deep commitment we've made to be a truly welcoming and inclusive community. What does that even mean, really? It means living out our values. It means embracing every single person, just as they are. Gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, economic background— we're here for everyone. And our worship? It just keeps inspiring, keeps enriching. It's this sacred space. A place for all ages to really connect. With God. With each other. It’s a beautiful thing to witness.

And this journey we're on to weave justice right into the very fabric of our lives together as a congregation, this isn't easy work, is it? It's critical. It's courageous. It's reflecting Jesus's courageous love, this profound, transformative kind of love. And I've seen it, firsthand. The incredible impact of our outreach. Extending comfort. Offering hope. To those whose voices often go unheard. To those with limited power. Embracing everyone who walks through our doors, seeking shelter, seeking community. It's changing us and changing our neighborhood.

And, honestly, none of this—none of it—would be possible without your faithful financial stewardship. We're always navigating budgetary waters, right? But your generosity, it allows us to keep that historic witness alive. To keep these vital ministries going. And your willingness to just roll up your sleeves, to give your time, your talent, to keep our ministry, including our building and grounds cared for… that's not just maintenance. That's a profound act of dedication. It’s love in action.

So, as we look ahead to this new year, I am just brimming with hope and excitement. For what God is going to continue to do. Through us. Right here. Let's keep cultivating this Beloved Community. Together we'll strengthen our relational discipleship—because it's all about connection, isn't it? And let’s keep courageously seeking the transformation of the world. By simply living out Jesus's courageous love. In every single thing we do.

Thank you, Eastport United Methodist. For these incredible years. Thank you for your partnership. For your trust. For your absolutely unwavering spirit. I really am so blessed to get to serve alongside each and every one of you. And I can't wait to see what’s next on this journey together.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Chris