AKRONFCC Resignation Letter

Beloved,

It is with a heart full of both gratitude and sorrow that I write to inform you of my decision to resign from my role as Associate Minister at First Congregational Church of Akron. As your minister, one of my sacred jobs is to look toward the future needs of your congregational life. After much prayer and reflection, I realize that the Spirit, in her wisdom, is leading me to enable you to form whole and healthy relationships with your new senior minister when the time comes. This is particularly important to me, as I want you to continue to grow as a community in the fullness of God’s call, both in your ministries and the ministry of your future settled minister. So, I feel that it is time that I begin to step into the next chapter of God’s journey for me.

I will begin transitioning to my new ministry on March 24. At that time, I will be decreasing the number of hours I work for First Congregational Church of Akron. My final worship service with the congregation will be on May 4. Following that, I will transition to focusing solely on pastoral care for our homebound members, assisting Pastor Jeff, and preparing them for the arrival of their new senior minister.

As I reflect on our time together, I would be remiss not to share the immense honor serving this congregation has been. Together, we have walked through moments of joy, challenge, growth, and transformation. In this time, I have been consistently inspired by the ways in which you have embodied a radical commitment to love—striving to serve all of God’s children, regardless of their background or circumstances.

As I leave, my deepest prayer is that First Congregational Church of Akron will continue to be a beacon of love and compassion in a world that is so often divided by fear, hatred, and misunderstanding. That this congregation will remain steadfast in its commitment to be a sanctuary for the outcast, a refuge for the least of these, and a place of healing for those who are hurting. In times when the world may be tempted to turn away, I pray that this community will turn toward justice, offer compassion to the hurting, and extend love to all who walk through these doors.

Your legacy is one of powerful impact, not only within the walls of this church but beyond them. I trust that you will continue to be a light in the darkness, showing the world the love of Christ through every word and every action.

Though I will now have to say my goodbyes, and close many relationships that I hold dear, please know that in my physical absence, my heart will always remain with you. I will be praying for you all as you continue your work, and I am confident that God’s presence will continue to guide you toward even greater growth in love, grace, and justice.

In Peace and Love

Rev. Bobby Burtt

Associate Minister