A Word of Gratitude and Farewell
Dear Topeka First United Methodist Church Family,
As many of you know, beginning July 1, I will be serving Silver Lake United Methodist Church while continuing my ministry at Rossville United Methodist Church. As I prepare to conclude my appointment as Associate Pastor at Topeka First, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the privilege of serving alongside you.
Over the past two years, I have been blessed by your faith, generosity, and commitment to Christ. Together we have shared moments of joy and celebration, seasons of grief and challenge, countless worship services, mission opportunities, Bible studies, visits, prayers, and sacred conversations. Through it all, I have witnessed the love of Christ alive and active in this congregation.
Serving as your Associate Pastor for Congregational Care has been one of the greatest honors of my ministry. Thank you for welcoming me into your lives, trusting me with your stories, and allowing me to walk beside you in both joyful and difficult moments. The relationships formed here will remain a cherished part of my journey.
I invite you to join us for worship this Sunday as I preach my final sermon as a member of the pastoral staff at Topeka First. Drawing from Philippians 1:1–11, the sermon will reflect on gratitude, partnership in the gospel, and the confidence that God continues the good work God begins. Together we will celebrate what God has done among us, give thanks for the relationships that have shaped us, and look forward with hope to the future God is preparing. While goodbyes are never easy, the message reminds us that Christ remains faithful, and the bonds we share in Christ endure beyond any pastoral transition.
While transitions can be bittersweet, I leave with confidence and hope for the future of Topeka First United Methodist Church. God is not finished with this congregation. The same Spirit that has guided us in the past will continue to lead you into new opportunities for ministry, discipleship, and service.
I also want to offer a brief clarification regarding Miracle Sunday. In a previous communication, it was stated that the special offering would support theological education in Africa. While Africa is one of the regions that benefits, the offering actually supports theological education and leadership development in multiple areas of the world, including Europe, Asia, the Philippines, and Africa. This is a link to the video explaining the campaign. Through your generosity, future pastors and church leaders across these regions are being equipped to proclaim the gospel and serve their communities faithfully.
Thank you for your kindness, encouragement, prayers, and partnership in ministry. It has been a joy to serve among you. I will continue to carry Topeka First in my heart and prayers, trusting God's abundant blessings upon this congregation for years to come.
As always, if you're traveling, plan to join us through our live stream at 9:30 am or 10:45 am.
If you would like to help with greeting & handing out bulletins, please use this link.
May God's grace and peace be with you always.
With gratitude and love in Christ,
Pastor Sandra Fatuma Nyembo
