Lay Leader's Corner
June, 2026

Greetings from the Lay Leader's Corner:
Memorial Day is behind us, and we stand at the doorstep of summer, it's June. For the last
couple of months, this column has been a lot about change, and now that change is
squarely upon us. By the time you read this newsletter, the Annual Conference will have
taken place, and I will have more to write about in the days to come. Pastor Sam and
Elizabeth are preparing to move to their new home. Pastor Sam's last Sunday with us will
be June 7th. We will have guest speakers for the rest of June. Then Reed City and Hersey
UMCs will begin a new era with Pastor Paula in July, but we have a few things to do
before then.
The last few weeks have seen a flurry of activity at the parsonage in Reed City. Lola
Callaghan and her helpers have been busy as bees readying the premises, removing
wallpaper and painting, for its new occupant. But, there is still some final dusting and
cleaning to be done before Pastor Paula moves in on the 18th of June. (Actually, she will
be “camping out” in the parsonage on the 17th in anticipation of the moving truck
arriving on the 18th. If you “love” to clean house, talk to me to volunteer and get an
assignment. Our goal is to be completed by June 15th.
Before we welcome Pastor Paula, we have one more thing to accomplish. We will have
only a little better than a week in June to say our goodbyes to Pastor Sam and Elizabeth
as they begin a new chapter in their life. Let's take time, as individuals and as a
congregation, to thank them and show our appreciation for their time with us, sharing the
love of God. Goodbyes are never easy, but they can be a celebration of the relationships
built that will span time and distance. Besides, we will all remain together enfolded in the
arms of God's love.
What a way to kick off the Summer. Usually, this time of year, things sort of slow down a
little bit when it comes to church activities. Bible studies take a hiatus, vacations are
taken, yard work or time at the beach or camping takes up more of our time, and we take
advantage of those “lazy” days of summer. Hopefully, this summer will be a little
different. We have new relationships to form. More of God's good work to fulfill. More
disciples of Jesus Christ to make for the transformation of the world. It's going to be a
busy summer.
Peace be with you,
Your Lay Leader,
Timothy Locker, Sr.