Recently, Kate Fields, Pastor of Children’s Ministry and Discipleship, tendered her letter of resignation. We will miss Kate, but rejoice that she is moving to a sister denomination where she will be directly involved in the food and faith ministry that is so close to her heart. Kate completed her Doctorate of Ministry in Land, Food, and Faith Formation while serving with us, and her next field of service is a further step in her call. Kate’s last Sunday at Belmont will be June 23, but she will preach on June 16. On June 23, the SPRC will host a reception in the foyer during the Sunday school hour. You may drop off cards expressing your gratitude to her in the church office. Kate’s letter to the church is below. We are thankful for Kate’s ministry with us at Belmont UMC.
Our SPRC has already begun scheduling meetings with children ministry chairs, discipleship chairs, Ministry Council leaders, and our staff to evaluate the next right steps for our children’s and discipleship ministries. We covet your prayers, welcome your thoughts, and trust God will guide us in this time of transition.
Dear Belmonters,
I am writing with exciting but bittersweet news that I have accepted a position of Associate Pastor/ Chaplain at St. Augustine’s Episcopal Chapel on Vanderbilt’s campus. There, I will be engaging in pastoral work, as well as food and faith ministry. It will be an honor to serve alongside the wonderful staff of St. A’s, including Rev. Becca Stevens.
At the same time, I am sad to leave Belmont; my last day will be Sunday, June 23, 2024. I am so thankful to have gotten to know each of you these past nearly five years! We made it through a pandemic together and emerged stronger and more focused on the ministerial work that the Spirit is calling Belmont to do. That is something to be proud of! Belmont UMC has long been a critical part of the Nashville community, and I will continue to pray for y’all in doing this work. Thank you for teaching me about faithfulness through your small, faithful steps, done over and over. I am especially grateful for every child I have gotten to know and how we explored together our name given to us by God: “beloved.”
There is a song which has followed me for many years into sacred times in my life… “How Can I Keep from Singing?” For the sweet memories, good hugs, and sacred moments we have shared together, I give thanks to God. Truly, for the great folks at BUMC, how can I keep from singing?
With love, my deepest gratitude, and continued prayers,
Pastor Kate