23 Aug Judy Cettei Retirement
“To everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven…”
These wise words inspired the writer of Ecclesiastes, and I have always thought at times that maybe God whispered them right into my ears! Sometimes it seems as if God gave me a “holy nudge” to effect a change, like going off to seminary at the ripe old age of fifty-three! Lately it’s been a shout out from heaven, “you will continue to serve, but go and do what you must for now” …
And so, I tell all of you – my dearest friends -that I am retiring in September to enable me to spend more time with my husband, Mike, He has been the best of patients in his two-year battle with stage four cancer and has surprised all of us with his spirit and energy. He’s stable for now, still taking his oral chemo many days a month. In addition, the man truly has the patience of Job, as he has endured my drill sergeant-like instructions and care!
This congregation of every day saints has been so warm and loving to us – Mike still gets cards sent from angels every week. One of the things I have liked about helping new members come into this fold is telling them how “love makes the difference in so many lives,” it has certainly been true for us.
One of the things I will miss is the day to day contact with our wonderful, dedicated staff! I intend to keep up with them. Mike and I will not be away from the outstanding music and preaching this church provides every Thursday and Sunday – we’ll just be sitting in the pews next to you! And I will look forward to the day when I may serve God as one of God’s mighty volunteers!
FPC is graciously providing a “so long but not forever” drop-in on my last official day, September 9th in the parlor, from 9:45 to 10 :45 a.m. Stop by before/after worship or on the way to Sunday school and I will give you a friendship hug in thanksgiving.
I remain forever a child of God, saved by the blood of Christ, and strengthened by the Holy Spirit, made better for knowing all of you!
With Peace and Love,
(Rev.) Judy
Barbara
Posted at 06:45h, 16 NovemberThat was so sweet , Judy I don’t know you personally but I did know Mike . I attended the celebrating of life service on Nov. 11 2018 .So many nice things was said. about Mike which was all true . Such a kind person always thought of others. I worked with Mike in Lake City at that time it was called Mit-RCF , I was trying to find his obituary so I could read it. I remember how the pastor commented on how long it was. May God Bless you and your family.