THE BIG TRANSITION

Yesterday was an emotional roller coaster for many of us at Long Beach. The time had finally arrived. A time we knew was coming several months prior. Tears that had already flowed more times than could be counted. The “passing of the torch” from one minister to another. The final good-bye to a much loved man and his family. The welcoming of a man who seems passionate about his new work, a sweet wife, three girls with a fourth arriving by way of adoption at the beginning of the year, two kitty cats, and no “psycho” dog.

This was supposedly a rare event for a church of Christ, but I venture to guess a transition such as this, and done with such fervor, does not happen often in any church let alone a place of employment. Don’t recall passing a torch to any of my replacements, except one that I trained in a law firm, and we’re still friends to this day.

It was different for sure, and all in all, a very nice concept to initiate for this congregation. Jessica prayed over the girls, Janice prayed over Kenrie, and Greg prayed over Geron. Then the elders prayed over the family with the entire congregation surrounding them. Geron was touched and somewhat speechless at the outset.

But the big shocker--Greg and Steve actually wore suits. Have seen the others in the more formal Sunday attire a few times, but think Greg and Steve are the rebels when it comes to ties and suits,:) but what a fun pair to be around. When Steve walked down the hall, I introduced myself. Don’t think Steve was amused until I said how good he looked.:) Greg blew my plans to do the same when he changed to a Stooge shirt after service was concluded. Nevertheless, they all looked very dapper.

Greg may be remembered for “passing the torch” to the next preacher at Long Beach, but each of us will have our own personal memories. Although only a short-time member here, I saw the love many had for Greg, Janice, Josh, and Jessica. They always will be missed, and they always will be a welcome sight.

Noticed a few tears and the scrambling around for tissue, when Greg was talking, but I kept my composure. Figured I had no more tears to cry after all these months. Although gone from our midst, this won’t necessarily be the last thing I ever will write about this man and his Southern belle whom I have come to love very much. My memories go so deep.

I didn’t want Greg to leave and hate that Greg is gone. Although no one is irreplaceable, in my heart no one can ever fill Greg’s shoes, but people, especially ministers, come and go and you learn to accept the inevitable--things never stay the same. Have finally come to terms with this transition and wish the Bryan family success in their new ministry.

Where’s the tissue?