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June 8, 2010
June 8, 2010

Dear Friends:

I’m writing to share with you that I have received a call to be the Head of Staff at
Immanuel Presbyterian Church in Albuquerque, NM. It is my intention to accept. It has
been nine months since I first had contact with the Pastor Nominating Committee at
Immanuel and it has truly been a birthing process as together we have labored to discern
God’s direction in my life and in the life of the congregation of Immanuel.

Several factors have made this a difficult decision. For one thing, you can’t see New
Mexico from here! I have lived my entire life in the Southeast and the rhythms and
culture of this part of the country are second nature. But the fact that the Southwest is
different is part of what attracts me. It feels like it’s the right time for me professionally
and for the Cameron's as a family to experience another part of God’s big, wide world.

A stronger tug to overcome is the deep appreciation I have for how good I have it here at
Rockfish. You have encouraged me, challenged me, and sometimes gently chastened me
as I have matured in ministry. You have had patience with me as I have blundered
through the obstacle course of mid-life and come finally to a smoother path. More than
that, you have provided a nurturing environment for Kathryn, Katie, and Will. That
means the world to me.

I have thrived in the beauty of the Rockfish Valley and a part of me enjoys the easy pace
of life here. But another part of me longs to get back to a more urban setting. Immanuel
is a church that formerly had a large membership, but, like many churches, had difficulty
adjusting to a changing neighborhood over time. They sit half a block off of historic
Route 66 and are in the heart of the Nob Hill neighborhood about one mile from the
campus of the University of New Mexico. The Nob Hill neighborhood has regained its
footing and the congregation at Immanuel is eager to find new ways to engage their little
slice of God’s Kingdom. I think I can help with that.

If all goes according to plan, I will finish up at Rockfish in mid-July in time to begin at
Immanuel on August 1. Carson Rhyne, our Executive Presbyter, will meet with the
Session next week to begin the process of transition. I hope that our remaining time
together will be an opportunity for us to celebrate our decade of partnership in ministry,
to share good memories, and to encourage each other as God leads us into the future.

With Sincere Affection,

David