The Pastor’s Pen – June 2026
As I conclude my second year with the congregation, I find myself reflecting with gratitude on all that we have shared and accomplished together. The early years of ministry are often a time of learning, discovery, and building relationships. As we continue forward, our life together is becoming more established, grounded, and collaborative.
Like any meaningful relationship, a congregational partnership grows over time. As we come to know one another more deeply, we gain a clearer understanding of each other’s perspectives, gifts, hopes, and ways of working. That growing familiarity creates opportunities for greater trust, stronger communication, and deeper collaboration.
I am excited about the future we are building together. We have already established a strong foundation, and I believe the years ahead hold tremendous possibilities for shared ministry, creativity, and service.
As we continue this journey, I also want to acknowledge that I remain very much a learner. I am grateful for the grace, patience, and encouragement that so many of you have extended to me. I hope you will continue to share your thoughts, observations, and ideas openly.
Thank you to those who have taken the time to offer both affirmation and constructive feedback. Both are invaluable gifts. It is important for me to understand what is resonating as well as where there may be opportunities for growth. The worship survey distributed this week is one way we are continuing that conversation, and I encourage you to complete it if you have not already done so.
In response to feedback and my own observations, I’ve created a new staff schedule sheet that is posted outside the office.
I will be off on Mondays, working remotely on Tuesdays, in the office on Wednesdays and Thursdays, writing my sermon on Fridays, off on Saturdays and present on Sundays. This schedule is the ideal but, to be transparent, it won’t work out exactly this way every week.
For instance, I am in the office today (Tuesday) because there is voting here and I am meeting with the pastoral care team in person. This may mean that I work remotely tomorrow instead. Other weeks, I will be attending events and meetings on Fridays and Saturday, which may mean writing and taking time off on days I normally work.
Even though the goal will be the schedule as posted, if you want to catch me in-person, please use the scheduling link in my email signature (https://calendly.com/minister-pacificunitarian/meeting), confirm by email (minister@pacificunitarian.org) or text me on 818-530-6001 to be sure I am available.
If there are thoughts, concerns, or hopes that you have not yet shared, I invite you to reach out. My commitment is to listen carefully and thoughtfully.
I feel deeply encouraged by where we are as a congregation and by the momentum we continue to build together. Open and honest communication is one of the ways we ensure that our relationships remain strong and that we continue growing in healthy and meaningful ways.
With gratitude for two of the most rewarding years of my life, I look forward to many more years of ministry together.
Pastor Joshua
