Old First Says Farewell To Pastor Jane Ann Groom

By mutual agreement, Pastor Jane Ann Groom will finish her service as interim pastor at Old First on Sunday, November 21.  We are enormously grateful for Jane Ann’s service and her journey with us since October 2020.  Her sermons have brought us enlightenment and encouragement; her exploration of different forms of liturgy have helped us to think in new ways; and her encouragement has helped us to move forward with affiliating with the Reformed Association.  All of these have led us in the direction of Old First’s mission of “offering a space of unconditional welcome, a practice of worship and service, and a vision of God’s love and justice for all.”  We wish Pastor Jane Ann all the best in wherever her journey takes her next, and we hope and plan to stay in touch.

A letter from Pastor Jane Ann Groom follows:

Dear Friends of Old First Church,

As you may have heard, November 21 will be my final Sunday as your interim pastor. I share the conviction of your leaders that it is right and good that you begin to gather in person on the first Sunday of Advent, November 28, however, I continue to feel hesitant about meeting in person through the cold months of winter.  Perhaps I am being too conservative, however, I’ve decided it best to step aside as your interim in support of my own sense of well-being.

I am disappointed to leave you prior to your selection of a settled pastor.  Also, I am sorry for any inconvenience this causes.   Your Elders and Consistory have been gracious to me about it and I appreciate their understanding.   I have enjoyed working with them and the Deacons, Maureen, Lindsay, and Aleeza.  You’re a wonderful group. 

I will miss you and feel blessed to have been with you since October 2020.  Your fine leaders work hard to keep Old First faithfully operating through all the changes.  Thank you so much for inviting me to be a companion with you for this part of your journey.  I am grateful our paths have crossed.

Love to all,
Jane Ann