I’ve never really been good at goodbyes. No matter the circumstance, it’s something I never really look forward to, because that means something is ending. Whether it’s high school graduation, moving to a new state, or even your favorite movie or tv franchise ending…goodbyes never get easier. But this goodbye is especially tough. As it was announced on June 18th, I have accepted a call to a new position, and my last Sunday here will be July 2nd. While my family and I are very excited about these new possibilities, and we know that God has prepared this path for us, it doesn’t make this transition any easier.
I came to Fee Fee when I was 6 months old, and it truly is the only church I have ever known. Apart from a few semesters away for college, I sat in these pews every Sunday with you. I’ve grown up with you from my days in the nursery (where many of you remind me how you held me…thank you all for that), to my days in the Children’s Department enjoying the days of VBS and Children’s Church, and to my transition into the Youth Group here, where my life was forever changed. Chi Alpha, and every leader, student, or volunteer who has ever been involved there, has truly changed my life. This is the space where I grew into the man that I am today, and everyone there has been with me through all of life’s highs and lows.
My transition from student to staff was one that I wasn’t expecting when I came on board as the Summer Intern, but I saw God’s hand through that whole transition. As we worked through a pastoral transition and then a global pandemic, to say my first couple years in ministry was hectic is an understatement. But there was always one constant…the students. Their genuine joy, willingness, care, curiosity, and kindness is what made coming to work in difficult conditions worth it. I am so proud of each of them. The impact they have made on the youth group culture, each other, our church, our community, across the country while on mission, and on me and my family is out of this would. Students, I love you all, and I can’t wait to watch you succeed. You truly will change the world.
These last almost 5 years are one I would not change for the world. Serving as your Youth Pastor has been one of the best joys of my life, and I truly am sad to see this time pass. While this may seem like goodbye, please know that I am still here, cheering you on, and rooting for Fee Fee. Invest in each other, BUILD great community here, and continue to PURSUE our community. Be the hands and feet of Jesus.
Thank you Fee Fee, we truly will miss you.
Kyle & Alaina Baldwin
Chi Alpha Youth activities this month:
July 6th: Chi Alpha Summers
July 10th —14th: MFUGE Camp
July 19th: Board Game Night
Jul 28: Underground Church