By Jeff Pierpont
There’s a verse from Proverbs that has lingered in my heart these past few
weeks: “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of
life.”

Serving as your interim pastor these last three months has been, for me, a
longing fulfilled.

When we first stepped off together, I didn’t know what shape this season would
take.

Interim work is often defined by transition, uncertainty, even waiting. But from the
very beginning, you welcomed me not just into the pulpit, but into your lives —
with openness, honesty, and a deep willingness to walk together in faith.

As we journeyed through the wisdom of Ecclesiastes — naming the vanities and
mysteries of life—we also uncovered the quiet treasures that endure: meaningful
work, shared meals, laughter, celebration, friendship, and the presence of God in
all of it.

In a world so often obsessed with outcomes, Ecclesiastes teaches us to pay
attention to the moment we’re in.

As the Greensboro church we’ve done just that this summer with the Juneteenth
Celebration Sunday, the Funky Fourth Parade, the Farmer’s Markets, the food
distribution, the Holocaust Lectures, The Book Club, and Coffee Hour every
Sunday.

This time together has been a tree of life — rooted, fruitful, and deeply good. I
end my temporary ministry with a grateful heart, thankful for the season we’ve
shared and the grace you’ve extended.

May our future be filled with joy, wisdom, and abundant grace.