July 2026

“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Grace and peace to you in Christ.

As I prepare this first letter to you, these words from Isaiah have been resting in my heart. They have carried me through many seasons of life and ministry.

This verse is especially precious to me because it was beautifully written in Korean calligraphy by my husband's grandfather, a devoted pastor, when my husband and I came to the United States to study at Candler School of Theology at Emory University. He gave it to us as a blessing for the journey ahead. Today, his calligraphy is displayed at Pitts Theology Library, but even more importantly, God's promise has been written on our hearts. Through times of joy and times of uncertainty, these words have reminded us that God is always faithful.

As United Methodists, we know that faith is a journey. Every season brings both joy and challenge, excitement and uncertainty. We celebrate new beginnings while also carrying the memories of what has come before. That is true for all of us as we begin this new chapter together.

I know that change can bring many questions. As your new pastor, I want you to know this above all else: I am committed to walking alongside you. Whether we gather for worship, share a meal, visit in times of joy or sorrow, serve our neighbors, or simply take time to listen to one another, I look forward to growing in faith together.

Home is not only where we live; it is where we love, serve, and belong. Wherever I may reside, I am here to love, serve, and journey with you. My heart is with you, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with you.

This beautiful image above is from many African traditions about the baobab tree. The baobab grows wide and strong because it holds the stories of the village. Generation after generation gathers beneath its branches to remember where they have come from, to share both their joys and their struggles, and to pass on wisdom to those who follow. The elders say that these stories nourish the tree. The more the people remember, the stronger the tree becomes. In return, the tree shelters the people.

This image reminds me of the Church.

We, too, are shaped by our stories, stories of God's faithfulness, of prayers answered, of burdens shared, of meals prepared, of hands held, of laughter and tears, of hope that carried us through difficult days. Scripture continually calls God's people to remember, because remembering helps us trust that the God who has been faithful in the past will be faithful again.

I look forward to hearing your stories and sharing mine with you. Together, we will continue writing the next chapter of Oakdale's story, a story of faith, hope, love, and God's abiding presence among us.

As we begin this journey together, may we encourage one another, care for one another, and keep our eyes on Christ, who walks with us every step of the way.

May the peace of Christ fill your hearts and your homes.

Peace and Blessings,   Pastor Cindie