Thanks to Alan Barthel, PAM staff members Creston Parker and Sheila Robinette, Executive Board members, members of the PC(USA) Center staff, and members of PAM for welcoming me into the role of Executive Director. I have sensed your prayers and support as Alan and I worked together to make the transition as smooth and seamless as possible.

We serve vital roles in the lives of our congregations. In worship, in rehearsals, and in interactions within our congregations and communities, we have opportunities to bring life and beauty into a sometimes difficult and challenging world. We are called to lead and to serve, but we are also called to follow and be served. I hope that we can learn to balance our work, holy though it may be, with our own needs for refreshment, relaxation and rejuvenation.

PAM’s future is bright! PAM offers multiple opportunities for worship, study, growth, service, and refreshment. I hope you are taking advantage of those opportunities. Haven’t attended a Music & Worship conference at Montreat or at Mo-Ranch? Make this summer your first. Has it been a few years since your last conference? Why not come back this summer? Only have time or budget for a one-day event? Attend one of the Regional Gatherings in February. Can’t get away right now? Take advantage of our first on-demand webinar. David Gambrell, Associate for Worship in the Office of Theology and Worship has given us a great gift with a webinar about Year B of the Lectionary. Once you subscribe to the webinar, share it with pastors, musicians, and other members of your worship planning team. Looking for worship resources in a convenient and easily accessible format? A benefit of PAM membership is a subscription to Call to Worship. This outstanding journal provides thoughtful articles, exciting ideas, and an annual publication of musical suggestions correlated with the Lectionary.

All of that to say -- PAM offers tremendous opportunities for you. If you are a member of PAM, thank you for your support of the organization and its mission. If you aren’t a member yet, please consider joining. Both the organization and I solicit your prayers, support, and suggestions. I look forward to getting to know each of you as we serve God’s church and God’s people together.