2026 State of the Church

When I was called as Senior Pastor fifteen years ago, I began writing an annual letter. My intent was to give insights into where Sheridan’s ministry is and where I hoped we might go together. I keep writing it each year because of the positive feedback I receive.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens,
and I will give you rest.”
-Matthew 11:28

“It is easy to be good when it is easy. It is hard to be good when it is hard.” These words were commonly shared by me to my kids when they were young. Let’s face it, childhood is fraught with temptation, and I wanted to give them a mantra to remember when they were trying to discern right from wrong. We all know, when we stay on track, it is easier to keep on track. When we go off the rails, it is hard to get back on track.

I have come to know the impact of these words not just on one’s personal behavior or willpower, but also about the circumstances of life. Sometimes life comes down hard, and in those pressurized moments, we can act out and become our own worst enemies.

So in this annual update, I usually try to summarize how the previous year went for the congregation. With humility I admit to you, it was a very challenging year. I was challenged because of situations within our staff, mostly health issues, that were unforeseeable and which were and are painful. I was challenged by the deaths of several prominent congregation members, with whom I shared a special bond. I am generally not one who likes to admit such things, but 2026 has been a tough year, especially for those close to me for whom I deeply care.

But here is the amazing grace… we’ve done well and good as a congregation! Even when it has not been easy, we have done good! My guess is that many who read this will likely be unaware, or marginally aware, of the hardships endured. My friends, I am immensely proud of this!

My pride in 2026 has been with our staff. You know… the ones who make sure most of the work gets done around here. They have risen to the occasion, worked through hardship and generally continued to be the best version of themselves. As one who has been here through it all, I can say that I have the best seat in the house, as I get to watch amazing people be so good, even when it is hard being good.

So, please keep our staff and our congregation in your prayers. Finding a fourth pastor is imperative, as we really need the support. Please pray for healing for those who are sick and peace for those who are troubled. Pray that the frenetic, unpredictable and harried cultural pace will wane, and that those of us who seek depth and peace will become the majority of voices in our society. Pray that the church may continue to be an outpost of Christian love.

I remain blessed to serve and humbled to lead at Sheridan. Thank you for your generosity, for the love you have for our community, and for how much you care. “It is easy to be good when it is easy”… I am grateful and proud that we are so very good in tough times, as well.