Dear Church Family,
I want to share something important with you.
After 38 years of serving in youth ministry, I will be retiring from my role as Youth Director at the conclusion of our upcoming ASP mission trip.
This decision has been made prayerfully and with deep gratitude for the privilege of serving this church and especially its young people. Youth ministry has been one of the great joys of my life, and I am thankful for the many ways this congregation has supported, encouraged, and prayed for this ministry over the years.
In keeping with a promise I made long ago, I first shared this news with the youth themselves, along with my immediate family and our senior pastor, Rev. Dean. The youth have always been my top priority, and it was important to me that they hear this directly from me before the news was shared more broadly within the church.
I want to assure you that this is not a sad announcement. Youth ministry is meant to grow, change, and be renewed with fresh ideas and leadership, and I truly believe this next chapter will allow the ministry—and our youth—to continue to thrive.
I am not stepping away immediately. We will walk through this transition thoughtfully and faithfully together, ensuring care and continuity for the youth and their families while preparing for what comes next.
Thank you for the trust you have placed in me over these many years and for your continued love and support of our youth. I am grateful beyond words for this church and for the opportunity to serve here.
With deepest appreciation-
In Christ,
Lynn Thompson
An Important Announcement for the BUMC Family
