We give thanks for the leadership and companionship of Bishop Jim Gonia of the Rocky Mountain Synod. We share his parting letter in this post.

Dear Beloved of the Rocky Mountain Synod,

As I prepare to conclude my call as your bishop on July 31, I want to express my profound thanks for the opportunity to be on the journey with you these last twelve years. A full one third of my 36 years of ordained ministry has been spent as synod – literally on the way together – with you. I am grateful not only for the celebrations and milestone moments we have experienced, but for the challenges that have helped us grow and learn together.

It is with immense joy that I welcome the Rev Dr Meghan Aelabouni to her call as our next bishop. Her leadership, insights and passion will be a tremendous gift in this new season. I trust that you will surround her with your prayers, love and support.

For those who are wondering what comes next for me, I am retiring from ministry in the church and will use this next chapter of life to explore other interests and opportunities, including my love of photography and time with my family. I am excited to see what new ventures may lie ahead.

It’s been my practice when presiding at a blessing of transition for a pastor or deacon, to invite the minister and Council leaders to share words of affirmation and encouragement. In closing, I leave you with a few of my own heartfelt affirmations and encouragements.

My Affirmations:

• This is a healthy synod, full of vital congregations and ministries, served by faithful and talented rostered ministers. Thank you for the countless ways you proclaim and embody the gospel every day.

• This is a synod with a rich diversity of contexts, with a proven commitment to being connected across the miles and to serving the neighbor. I am grateful for how you live out church better together for the sake of the world.

• This is a synod open to new ideas, to new ways of being and becoming church. I appreciate your willingness to experiment and take risks for the sake of the gospel.

My Encouragements:

• Keep God’s inclusive unconditional love in Jesus front and center – a gospel of grace matters more than ever to our neighbors and world. Don't be shy to share it!

• Trust the Holy Spirit to lead you into new horizons of being the Body of Christ. Be bold to explore paths as yet untrodden.

• Remember your call to be God's both/and people in this either/or world. It will mark your witness and service as Christ's Church.

And now, dear friends, all that remains is to offer these words of blessing:

May the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Yours in Faith,

Bishop Jim Gonia