To my dear friends at Shepherd of the Hills,
When I was 31, Shepherd of the Hills Presbyterian Church was born. At that time of your birth, I had been serving for 14 months as the founding pastor of Holly Hills Baptist Church in southeast Denver. In my wildest imaginations I never dreamed that before my days of ministry would end I would be pastoring a Presbyterian church not in southeast Denver, but in the northwest part of the city known as Lakewood, and that there I would spend two of the most beautiful years of my life. God does have a sense of humor and beyond that his grace overwhelms me and leaves with such a thankful heart.
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When I retired from St. James
Presbyterian Church in Littleton after being there
22 years, I was certain that no other church could
compare to St. James, for that church had loved me
into whatever degree of health and wholeness I
experience. My time at St. James was a rich and
rewarding experience, but no more life giving then
my time in the midst of you, the dear people of
SOTH.
My memories of the months spent in your midst are warm ones. The kind of memories one can carry into old age and in remembering find strength. I recall the times of joy and laughter, the delight of working with as fine a staff as I have ever had the privilege of working with, the incredible willingness of the laity to pitch in and get jobs done, the joy (a new experience) of Session meetings, the pride folks took in the appearance of the property and the personal investment so many made to assure that the place was well maintained. |
Other rich memories are wrapped around being a part of some of your lives as you grew in your relationship to Jesus Christ, walking through difficult places with others of you, sharing in the celebration of life like weddings and baptisms in a way that is unique and wonderful to being a Pastor. Never have I been with a people who knew how to party and celebrate, as you people know how to party and celebrate. Good and happy times! Shepherd of the Hills Presbyterian is a beautiful Church and I was blessed beyond anything I could have imagined to spend two years journey with you.
Happy 40th birthday dear ones and thanks for the memories.
Love,
Les Avery
Interim Pastor 1999-2001