Shared Sabbaths, Shared Strengths

As I prepare for my upcoming renewal leave (June 10–August 1), I want to share how our church will be supported and led during this time—and how you can stay connected and cared for throughout the summer.

First, I’m grateful that Rev. Boston White Smith, our Associate Pastor, will continue to serve faithfully all summer. Her leadership, compassion, and creativity are a true gift to our congregation.

In June, we’ll launch a fun and meaningful Broadway-themed sermon series on June 15, 22, and 29, with sermons shared by Rev. Boston White Smith and Rev. Marianne Brown-Trigg, campus minister at the Denton Wesley Foundation. This series will explore spiritual themes through the lens of Broadway musicals—and yes, it will feature some exciting special music from our talented music team. You won’t want to miss a single week. (And yes—I’m already bracing for serious FOMO!)

Then in July, we’ll welcome Rev. Dr. Vic Casad, who will preach each Sunday and serve in a quarter-time pastoral role during my absence. Many of you will remember Vic’s years as Senior Pastor at Aldersgate (1994–2003), and this will be a special homecoming for him—and for many of you. We’ll celebrate his return with a “Welcome Home Vic” First Sunday Fellowship on the first Sunday in July.

While I’m away, my prayer is that you’ll see this summer not just as “coverage,” but as an opportunity. With the pace of life shifting, school out, and schedules changing, this is a great time to reconnect with your church family, show up for worship, and find your own rhythm of spiritual renewal. We’re all in this season together.

If you or someone you know needs pastoral care while I’m away, please reach out to Susan Vohtz, our Church Office Manager. You can call the church office at 972-492-9393, or email office@aldersgatecarrollton.org. Susan can connect you with either Pastor Boston or Rev. Dr. Vic, both of whom are available for support and emergencies.

Thank you for giving me this time to step away and renew. I’m confident that this time will bless not just me, but all of us, as we learn again that God’s strength is found in shared sabbaths, shared stories, and shared ministry.

I’ll be praying for you, and I’ll be cheering you from my travels.

With Gratitude,

Rodney Whitfield
Senior Pastor
Aldersgate UMC