Rev. Bickelhaupt returns the call to Hope

Pastor Jay Bickelhaupt returned the call to serve as Pastor of Hope Lutheran in Hampton. Pastor Schroeder will continue serving as vacancy pastor during the interim. The District Mission Board will issue a new call sometime before the end of the month. Pastor Bickelhaupt's letter is attached below.

December 11, 2009

Dear Saints of Hope Lutheran,

It is my sincere prayer that the Lord of the church continues to strengthen you with his Gospel so that you remain as bright lights of faith shining in this dark world.
The divine call that the Lord extended to me on November 25, 2009 has allowed me to have many conversations with brothers and sisters in the faith that I would otherwise not have had. How blest are we to know that around our country there are men and women fighting the good fight of faith, fighting to win souls for Christ!

After much prayer and discussion with God’s people I have decided to return the call that our Lord extended to me through the members of Hope Lutheran Church. The deliberations have allowed me to recognize that both congregations have great needs at this time. The deliberation process has also led me back into Scriptures which remind all of us that the Lord will never forsake or leave his people. It is Christ who is our rock, our fortress, and the strong foundation on which his people are built. With that knowledge and with the promises of the Lord I look forward with great eagerness to hear how God blesses you in the future.
The strength and dedication of the leaders in your district and your congregation is encouraging. You are in my prayers of thanksgiving. May the good news flourish in your hearts and may it be proclaimed through you in your community!
The God of love and peace will be with you!

In Christ Jesus our Risen Lord,