June 17, 2026

This past Sunday we gave Pastor Rachel a farewell luncheon and celebrated her ministry here at PCFUMC. Also last week, Pastor Rachel came and spoke to the Amazing Grays group. She spoke about her five years here. Although she did address the difficulties she encountered, her emphasis was on the friendships, ministry moments, and people who have made her ministry here one of the best she has experienced. She ended by talking about the importance of friendships between pastors and parishoners.

I would like to take a moment and share some of what Pastor Rachel has meant for me and for my family. As some of you may know, Ron and I were at college together but we lost touch until we were both serving churches in the Birmingham area. A mutual friend suggested that I get in touch with Rachel as she was leading the St. Andrews Society in the area. I can’t remember the reason but I do remember meeting this kind and endearing minister who had a heart for serving the hungry. I believe this was in the early 2000s.

Rachel and I became good friends. She introduced me to essential oils and we bonded over being one-half of a clergy couple. We gathered for coffee on occasion, chatted over social media and on the phone and met together whenever there was a clergy women retreat. She filled in for me when she was working for St Andrews Society and I filled in for her after I retired. She cheered me on when I started my own YouTube channel and I supported her educating others about essential oils, including several zoom meetings during Covid.

Ed and I were so excited when we found out that she was serving here at Pell City! We had just moved to the lake full time and were planning on checking out several United Methodist churches in the area. But after attending just one service here, we realized this was were we needed to be in retirement. We stayed because of Rachel but we have found many more reasons to remain (and I’m looking at YOU). It was also good to catch up with Ron and share many wonderful laughs and conversations.

Rachel has done such a wonderful ministry here! I don’t think I need to tell you all that she has done for God and this church - each of you have your own stories. All I can say is that I admire her and her strength, wisdom, guidance and patience. Rachel has always been someone to whom I can go for advice, knowing that she will keep my confidence, listen intelligently and just be present.

I know that she will be a blessing at Riverchase UMC. I will miss her as my pastor but I will always have her as my friend.

Blessings and Godspeed, Rachel and Ron!

Amelia