Bob Dylan grew up about an hour from our lake cabin in northern Minnesota and the title to one of his most famous songs echoes back through time and reverberates into the future.  They are especially true as I write these words today,

                      “The times they are a-changin’.”

Change is coming again for the Neighborhood Church and for me personally.  Last night I met with the Church Council and the Board of Trustees to announce I will be retiring in the spring of 2023.  My decision has not come easily.  I have prayed and meditated about it for the past several months and believe it is the right decision for Michelle and me.

I love the Neighborhood Church and all of you very much.  It has been a blessing and a gift to serve as your Senior Minister for now nearly 10 years and I will miss you greatly.  At the same time, I am really looking forward to spending more time with my family and especially our grandchildren.  There are so many things Michelle and I want to do while we are healthy and in good physical shape.  

For me, this time of change is a mixed bag of sadness and excitement.  Saying good-bye to you and letting go of nearly 50 years of professional ministry will be very hard.  And yet, exploring new opportunities will bring joy and renewed enthusiasm for what the future holds.

The Neighborhood Church is a wonderful church thanks to God’s goodness and grace - and to all of you.  I am confident the next chapter of the church’s life will be vital and strong – and that is exciting!  

Thank you for the gift of allowing Michelle and me to share in the ministry of this portion of Christ’s body.  We look forward to journeying with you during the coming months of change and growth and we ask God’s richest blessings upon each of you and the Neighborhood Church as we do.

In the words of the Psalmist,

God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.    
Therefore, we will not fear,
though the earth should change…
“Be still and know that I am God!”
The Lord of hosts is with us.
Psalm 46 (excerpts)

With deep love and appreciation,

Rev. Dr. David D. Young
Senior Minister

This piece originally appeared in The Wave on November 2, 2022