Good Hope Metropolitan Community Church is entering a transitioning period.

The Church Council made the following announcement:

It is with regret that the church council announces the resignation of Reverend Pressley Sutherland.

Pressley’s leadership, his commitment to the spiritual growth of our congregation and his active role in ensuring that the church has a voice and presence in the life and activities of the LGBTI sector has been greatly valued.

Pressley’s last day with us will be the 16 May 2010. At our annual general meeting, the church council will propose a way forward and the transition will be a point for discussion at this meeting.

Pressley and the church council will remain behind after the service tonight, should there be anyone who would like to chat.

It is a while before we take leave of Pressley and we want you to know that this has been a difficult process for Pressley as he has really loved the congregation and the work of Good Hope MCC – Along with Pressley, the church council remain committed to the life and work of our congregation.

Church Council
14 March 2010

The Rev. Pressley Sutherland brings you the following message:

Dear Members and Friends,

The book of Ecclesiastes says that there is a time for everything under the sun. Sometimes we know the length of the seasons, sometimes we don’t. I am writing this letter to tender my resignation as Pastor of GHMCC. I had hoped the season would be longer, but due to family obligations I need to return to London. One of my commitments to my partner was that if the distance began to put an inordinate strain on our relationship and home, I would return. This time has come.

It is recommended that a pastoral resignation be given at least 60 days in advance, but no less than 90 days, as this puts much strain on a congregation to have a protracted time of leaving. I will therefore take leave of my duties after the service on Sunday, 16 May, 2010, upon your acceptance of this letter of resignation.

The Reverend Elder Diane Fisher and I have been in conversation, and she is committed to supporting you well during this transition. She will suggest options for an interim pastorate or other arrangements as you discern the direction you would like to take in the future regarding pastoral leadership. Our hope is that you will be able to continue healthily through the change cycle that GHMCC is currently experiencing in order to go from strength to strength, refreshing your vision, leadership, membership and resources.

The Church Council and I will do all that we can to prepare our leadership and community for this transition during the next season. My heart continues to be with this church, and I remain, each day, grateful to be a pastor among this community.

With much love and blessing,

//signed/ Pressley
The Reverend K. Pressley Sutherland