Pastor Mark, what a legacy you leave behind. It is with heavy hearts, but smiles on our faces, the we say farewell. It’s not goodbye, because we know the hope that we carry with Jesus in our hearts...the hope that one day we will all meet again. And so, I (Shelly) take a page from your example (& in true Pastor Mark fashion at the closing of a service) leave us all with this benediction: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” To your family: “Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ.” You are all deeply loved & we grieve (& rejoice) with you. My faith journals are a result of a personal encouragement YEARS ago from Pastor Mark after an encounter w/ Christ at the altar. And I often pass that encouragement along to others who are non-journalers (is that a word?) because I’m some of my dark moments, I could look back & read of Gods faithfulness. Thank you Mark, for being not just a pastor, but also a very kind shepherd & friend. I pray that I can be a similar encourager to those whose paths cross mine. (This definitely was longer than I intended, but I guess I wouldn’t be me if it was short, right?)