Dear Cathedral Family,

In this blessed season of summer, I want to share a message that speaks to me to be the heart of our journey together as a church community.

A growing church is always in transition. From building programs to room changes, from staff adjustments to schedule flexes, from shifting responsibilities to the addition of new ministries, our Cathedral is constantly preparing for the transitions that come with growth. This dynamic nature of our church is both a testament to our vitality and a call to trust in God’s guidance.

In Mark 4:26-34, Jesus shares the parables of the Growing Seed and the Mustard Seed, emphasizing the natural, almost imperceptible growth of the Kingdom of God. He explains that the Kingdom of God is like a man scattering seed on the ground. The seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself, the soil produces grain—first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. This passage highlights that growth, though often mysterious and beyond human control, is assured when the conditions are right.

Similarly, our Cathedral must trust that its growth, though it may come with challenges and transitions, is part of a divine plan. The parable of the Mustard Seed further illustrates this, showing that from small beginnings, something great can emerge. The smallest of seeds can become the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds can perch in its shade. This reassures us that even the smallest efforts and changes can lead to significant impact over time.

Transitions aren’t always easy. Generally speaking, transitions that involve people and relationships are more difficult than those that simply involve facilities and schedules. Nevertheless, as a growing church, we must learn to adapt through transition. For the pastor and lay leaders, this means leading our church family through these changes. Just as the sower in the parable trusts the process of growth, we must guide our church with faith and patience.

For the church family, this means being flexible and remembering that transition is part of the growth process. Embracing the journey, like the tiny mustard seed growing into a large tree, we can trust that each step, though it may seem small or challenging, contributes to the larger mission and vision of our Cathedral.

Let us continue to sow seeds of faith, hope, and love in our community, trusting that God will bring the growth in His perfect timing. As we navigate through these transitions together, let us remain united in our commitment to our shared mission and to each other.

May the peace of Christ be with you all as we journey forward in faith.

Blessings,

Tim+