The Pastor's Pen

The Pastor's Pen is a weekly devotional space where our pastor, as well as staff members on occasion, offer reflections, spiritual insights, and words of encouragement rooted in Scripture and everyday life. These writings are intended to challenge, inspire, and draw us closer to God and to one another as we strive to live out our faith with boldness and compassion. Whether offering comfort, conviction, or a call to action, each column invites us into deeper discipleship and shared community. When The Columns does not run, there is not a new entry for The Pastor's Pen.

Along the Journey... | Jan. 22, 2026

Additional advice for welcoming a new pastor from the Lewis Center for Church Leadership:

  • Pray for Rev. Zach Bay and his family - Kristy, Eleanor and Elliot - daily.
  • Commit to love them and show it in practical ways:
  1. Help make their new house move in ready. If you have skills, offer them.
  2. Stock their pantry/refrigerator with some staples, remember to include kid-friendly food and snacks.
  3. Coordinate your planned actions with Spencer Murphy or Susan Dillard, so the Bays are not overwhelmed with virtual strangers invading their home.
  • Attend the welcome reception on February 8. Drop off a card of welcome and possibly a small gift, such as a gift card to a favorite local restaurant.
  • Introduce yourself repeatedly.
  • Remember that living up to the expectations of a diverse group of church members is difficult (if not impossible). Please give Zach the privilege of being human. Show your support by speaking positively about him in the church and in the community.


Sample prayer for this week:


Gracious God,


We rejoice in Your goodness as we welcome Rev. Zach Bay and his family with open arms. We thank you for the gifts and talents they bring to our church, and we pray that You bless them abundantly.


Grant Zach and Kristy hearts that are filled with compassion, kindness, and humility. May they be faithful stewards of Your word, teaching and guiding us in the ways of righteousness.


Help Rev. Bay lead with integrity and wisdom, seeking Your will in every decision. May we as a congregation surround Zach and his family with a community that supports and uplifts them.


Grant Zach strength and endurance as he shepherds Your flock. May his ministry be fruitful and bring glory to Your name. Amen


~ Donna Myers, Secretary, on behalf of Church Council