My Dear Soul Friends, When I first entered this sanctuary, it was in the arms of my mother in 1963. This has always been spiritual home to me. You know the list: On this one spot in front of our communion table I was baptized, confirmed, married to my soulmate, called as pastor, witnessed my son’s baptism, ordained, confirmed both of my children, led my parents renewing their wedding vows, participated in eulogizing each of them, and spoke from the heart of the lives of countless other dear souls whose passing took a piece of us with them and gave us something holy in return. I have presided from this spot at the weddings of children I baptized, and I have baptized a few of their children. This is most sacred ground that Teresa and I now leave. For the past seven years beyond these doors, I have devoted every extra minute to the study, mentoring and teaching of Jungian spiritual discernment. You have been most patient, supportive and adventurous as I have tried out many of these concepts here on Sunday mornings. It became clear to Teresa and me a few years ago that my interest was, in fact, a clear call to pursue this work in the beautiful, longing world beyond the doors of West Bloomfield United Church of Christ. These 10,199 days as your pastor have nurtured and grown us beyond anything we could conceive. It now feels like gestation, and when Teresa and I walk out these doors today, it will be a birthing into a bold new life for us, and, I believe, the same for you.

-Corey

Leave a comment