Sunday January 15 2023 we installed the Rev. Mark Hadley as the new senior pastor at Shepherd of Life, Arlington. Mark has served on staff at SoL for over a decade, the last 6+ as an ordained pastor of Word and Sacrament.
When we learned Pastor John Foster was planning his retirement in December 2022 the leadership of SoL and our NT-NL Synod, ELCA staff came together to discuss succession planning. After numerous conversations, consultation with an outside firm, and lots of prayer the congregation and Pastor Mark agreed to transition him to senior pastor.
The sense of spirit today affirmed that process. The stability and consistency that Mark’s service as senior will bring to the congregation is a comfort in the midst of change. However, the community is clear their goal is not comfort. To continue their worship and educational life together they have made significant changes. Additionally they continue to expand their food pantry and baby supply pantry ministry. Distributing over 4,200 bags of baby diapers in 2022 alone.