The text of the letter:

June 25, In the Year of Our LORD, 2008

Dear Friends,

After a little more than seven years, it is with mixed feelings that I resign as Pastor and Head of Staff of Gates Presbyterian Church effective August 31 of this year.  I have accepted a call to a half-time position at the First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, in Gloversville, just south of the Adirondacks.

Seven years!  While Sunday worship is such a joy, it is our work in ministry and mission in Rochester and beyond that reflects our faith in Jesus the Christ.  I will always think of the cow and pig projects in Guatemala, the dreams for the Basic School in Jamaica, the Wednesday evening Bible classes (my favorite), the enthusiasm of the choirs, the men gathering for meals and outings, the incredible devotion of time and talent of all who volunteer in so many different ways.  As to this marvelous facility, we saw the installation of new windows, roofing, air conditioning, office furniture and new computer equipment.  This facility is well equipped for decades to come because of your devotion and stewardship!  Yes, there is still much to do, but together we were faithful stewards of what past generations entrusted to us!

Sally is making a move to an engineering position at the Main Office of the New York State Department of Transportation in an area of work she very much enjoys.  Sally’s new opportunity – at the eastern end of the state where we had intended to retire eight years from now – is something to which she will be able to devote her energy and talent.

Session has called for a special meeting of the congregation to be held after worship on Sunday, July 20 to ask the Presbytery of Genesee Valley to officially dissolve our relationship effective August 31.

May God continue to bless all of us in our continued call to ministry and mission, accomplished in the name of our LORD Jesus Christ!  Thank you for your love, your devotion, and your prayers.

Ralph S. English

Pastor and Head of Staff

Written June 30th, 2008 by Ralph English

The 5-minute DVD preview featured during Worship on October 28, is available online for viewing. Copies of the full length DVD (14 1/2 minutes in length) are available in the church office. The Stewardship Committee asks for $5 to cover production cost. For the preview, follow this link, click the play button, and wait a few seconds. It should start playing (the music does not start right away). It requires Macromedia Flash player.

Written October 28th, 2007 by admin

See the NYC Mission photos online

Written September 5th, 2006 by Chris Thornton