Dear Juneau,
I am about to be one of those persons, in the way of Southeast Alaska and the church, who come into our midst, stay a while and then go. I have accepted a call to a new congregation in Portland, Oregon.
I have served as pastor of Resurrection Lutheran Church for nine years. Together, we did all those things you expect to do as a church: gathered, sang, prayed, ate, forgave, studied, laughed, cried. There were baptisms and confirmations, weddings and funerals. Long days and nights alongside hospital beds. Potlucks and game nights and movie nights and work parties. The food pantry, hot dogs on the Fourth of July, fundraisers. Mundane but necessary projects like replacing sewer pipes, and ambitious projects like a front entry remodel. It has been good. It is still good. Because it is good, because the church is healthy and strong, hopeful and grounded, I am able to go.
One of the great joys of being a pastor in Juneau is all the ways you helped me serve as a community pastor, beyond the walls of Resurrection. You have allowed me to be a voice in prayer for the sake of our legislators. You have invited me to bless the fleet. You have given me the opportunity to speak words of faith and hope at memorial services. You have allowed me to accompany you through National Alliance on Mental Health courses, Juneau Suicide Prevention Coalition meetings and trainings and activities, Days of Remembrance, and Coast Guard events. You have given me a place to play in the Junior Symphony and the Marching Band. You have allowed me to express myself in the radio booth at KRNN. You have read the words I have shared in this column. You have shared in all this, and so much more. I am very grateful, and my heart is full. Thank you.
It has always been a humbling and surprising experience to introduce myself to people, who say they already know who I am. It is a gift to be recognized, known, appreciated. I am so glad that my work has been a connection with the wider community, with all of you. I hope those things I have done have made our community a better place. Thank you for teaching me to be a pastor among you. I have been blessed. God bless you and keep you, this day and always.
• Sue Bahleda is pastor of Resurrection Lutheran Church until July 18.
