Overwhelmed. Surprised. Humbled.
These are just a few of the words that describe how I felt this past Sunday when the church celebrated my family and me.
When I consider the depth of preparation that you took to honor me, I feel unworthy of the attention. It is an honor to serve as the pastor of the First Baptist Church of Sylva, and I count that as blessing enough. I have been stunned by the outpouring of your kindness and generosity on the occasion of my receiving my doctorate and for serving as your pastor for eight years. Thank you, First Baptist.
I had no idea that Larry Grantham had broken into my church office and stolen my graduation cap, gown, and hood last week (certainly, our church’s security system needs attention). But what a beautiful gesture it was to have me put on my cap and gown and be hooded by Rebecca and Dr. Ford! Until Sunday, I had not yet worn my academic regalia since my graduation ceremony has been postponed.
I’m not sure when my graduation ceremony will be rescheduled, but it was already going to be a bittersweet moment. Yes, there will be loved ones who would have liked to see me graduate that will not be in attendance. But additionally, I knew that the congregation—and the many participants of my doctoral dissertation—would mostly not be able to attend. Thus, the gift of your intentionality to have me ‘dress the part’ warmed my heart. And the exquisite woodcarving by Dennis Wilkey is an extraordinary gift! It has been given a place of honor in my office. Thank you, First Baptist, for investing in me. Thank you, First Baptist, for blessing my call to serve, and to learn, and to grow. Thank you, First Baptist, for honoring me in such a rich, personal and heart-felt way.
Here are a few words of gratitude from our family:
“Jeff and I feel blessed to belong to a family who ministers together. We see service to others as our shared identity. We’ve always felt called to be a family that serves together. Although my call to ministry is located in the nonprofit world, specifically at Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center, I am humbled and honored by your acknowledgment of my church service. Thank you for blessing my place as a worship leader and as a Sunday School teacher at our church. I love our church family, and I am so grateful for the support you extend to Jeff, and Zeb, and Ellen. Thank you for your most generous gift and the beautiful, hand-crafted pen. It now has a place on my office desk. Thank you for loving us and for helping us to call First Baptist home.”
-Rev. Rebecca Mathis
“Thank you, First Baptist, for all of the kind words to my family and me on Sunday. Thank you also for the many recipes in the cookbook. I will look forward to making these many recipes through the years. Thank you.”
-Ellen Mathis
“Thank you, First Baptist, for your love toward my family. You have been so thoughtful and kind. Thank you for your generosity, and thank you so much for the baseball game! It’s so fun!”
-Zeb Mathis