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Dear Church Family, This is my final e-note to the congregation. It feels strange to say that. When I arrived at BUMC almost two years ago, I assumed I would stay a decade and then retire in Brentwood. Instead, my work here ended up being more of an interim pastor role, laying down foundations for the next chapter at BUMC. You and your new senior pastor Davis Chappell will be in my prayers in the days to come. I hope you will give Davis the love, support, encouragement and respect he will need to take on this exceptionally challenging role. It's been a privilege to serve with such a fine staff and excellent lay leaders over these past two years. I hope and expect to hear good things about BUMC in the days ahead. As I depart this place, my greatest prayer for BUMC is that you will fully live out your vision statement, "Living like Jesus, Bringing Joy to God." This weekend begins Holy Week, the most sacred time of the Christian year. We'll celebrate Palm Sunday at all four services. I'll be taking on the character of the Apostle John, telling the story of Jesus washing the disciple's feet in a first person dramatic monologue sermon. I hope you will also make plans to attend Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday-which will be my final day at BUMC. Details of all our Holy Week services can be found by clicking here. Bishop Pennel will be preaching at our Maundy Thursday service and Bishop Spain will be preaching at our Good Friday service. Unfortunately, Paula
and I have to vacate our current home in Brentwood on Maundy Thursday, and move into our new home in Cookeville on Good Friday, so I will not be able to attend those two services. But I do look forward to seeing you on Saturday night or Sunday morning for one of our Easter weekend worship services. If you don't have a strong preference, it would be helpful for you to attend on Saturday night, leaving parking and seating space for our many guests on Easter Sunday. Finally, it was good to welcome Frank Lawing; Hudson Wetzel; and Richard, Kristi, Ella, Joey and Ava Hunter as new members. Welcome to our church family. In Christ's Love and Service, Martin