Dear Hamilton Park (HP) Family,
Happy Eastertide. It has been over three decades since I addressed you as (Interim) Pastor. Though my time in this role will be relatively short (three months), I am hopeful and optimistic that much can and will be accomplished. I recently met with Rev. Bryant Phelps (your permanent new pastor) and assured him that I will do all I can to prepare the congregation for his new administration.
I have no interest in reminding you of who I am and what I have done, nor do I have any interest in being pulled into or getting bogged down in any negativity or controversy. I intend to use my time and my gifts to “equip the saints (at HP) for the work of ministry, for the building up the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12). HP has “turned the page” in its ministry life. This is not the first nor will it be the last. I am aware that there is much work to be done. Yes, there are significant challenges and there are significant opportunities. It is my hope and expectation that we will use our time and energy on the latter.
I look forward to seeing you this Sunday (and future Sundays) as we turn this page together. As you prepare to come, please invite your friends, neighbors, former members, and inactive members to join us as we find the path forward together.
We now begin the liturgical season of Eastertide. As a people enlivened by the power of the Resurrection, let us excite each other in finding new and greater ways of making disciples for Jesus Christ for the transformation of Hamilton Park and the world.
With Resurrection Joy,
Rev. Dr. Henry L. Masters, Sr.
(Interim) Pastor