Greetings Topeka First UMC,

I am writing to you today to inform you that starting July 1, Pastor Sandra Nyembo is being reappointed, and Rev. Grace Woods is moving away and will be leaving our church as well. I am excited for both of them and their next ministry adventures, but sad that they will no longer be a part of our church. We will celebrate their ministries in June. The Leadership Council and I are working on filling both positions. We will keep you updated as we move forward. 

Please find both Sandra and Grace's letters below. If you have any questions or thoughts, please let me know.

Pastor Brad

Dear Topeka First United Methodist Church Family,

Grace and peace to you.

I want to share with you that after prayerful consideration and conversation with our district leadership, I have accepted an appointment to serve as pastor at Silver Lake United Methodist Church beginning July 1. I will continue to be the pastor at Rossville United Methodist Church as well.

Serving Topeka First United Methodist Church has been a profound blessing in my life and ministry. I am deeply grateful for the love, partnership in ministry, and the many ways we have grown together in faith. From worship and mission to the moments of care and community we have shared, these experiences will always remain close to my heart.

Transitions in the life of the church are never easy, but they are also part of the way God continues to guide and renew our ministry. I trust that God will continue to lead Topeka First into a vibrant future, and I look forward to cherishing these remaining months together as we continue to serve Christ side by side.

Thank you for the privilege of being your pastor.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Sandra Nyembo

Dear Topeka First UMC Family,

I want to share an important update with you about an upcoming transition for my family.

This summer, we will be moving, and I will conclude my ministry at Topeka First at the end of June. My husband, David, is finishing his Ph.D. this spring and has accepted a job in Rhode Island. While we are excited for what lies ahead, it is bittersweet to leave a church community that has meant so much to us. I will never forget your support and outpouring of love during monumental moments like our wedding, my ordination, and the birth of our first child. 

Serving as Pastor of Next-Gen Ministries at Topeka First has been one of the greatest gifts. I am deeply grateful for the relationships we’ve built and the ways we’ve grown together in faith. My heart is heavy as I prepare to say goodbye to such a beautiful community. I trust that God’s abundance will continue to bless our church family as you discern someone new to step into this role. 

I will return from maternity leave on March 29, and I look forward to spending these final months together. I ask for your prayers during this season of transition for my family and for our church.

As for what comes next, I’m not yet sure where my ministry will lead. For this next season, I’m looking forward to spending meaningful time at home with our baby while leaning into God’s holy mystery and remaining open to what is to come. We would deeply appreciate your prayers, and I look forward to seeing you all again soon.

With gratitude,

Pastor Grace