On Resigning

As some of you know, I resigned my position as Pastor of Adult Ministries at Christ Community Church of Laguna Hills on December 21, 2010.  After about a week, I told a few close friends of my decision, but left it to the church to announce my decision to the broader church community.  That communication went out today from the church via email and in my opinion, it is inaccurate.  It was my decision to leave, not the anyone else’s, and I believe my resignation letter below demonstrates this.  I am disappointed that this was not communicated accurately to the church body, but glad I can clarify it here.  In the big scheme of things, it is a minor thing to address given that one of my friends is now out of a job, which greatly saddens my heart.

December 21, 2010

Dear Pastor Charles,

It is with a heavy heart that I am writing this letter to offer my resignation as Pastor of Adult of Ministries effective January 3, 2011.  With the current financial situation of the church and in light of my alternative employment at Biola University, I think it would be best for me to surrender my current salary for the financial well-being of the church.  In addition, the stress of the impending layoffs has been difficult for me and my family.  I believe this is the best decision personally for the Rouses at this time.

In addition, I would like to take a 5 month sabbatical from church ministry through May 31, 2011.  This will help me and my family adjust to our new budget and schedule.  In addition and due to the impending layoffs, I have planned to teach an overload of classes at Biola in the spring to help our financial situation and also take an extra Talbot class.  This means I will be very busy this spring.

We will continue attending CCCLH during my sabbatical.  I would be open to ministry opportunities beginning June 1, 2011 if there is a need in the church.  In the meantime, I am willing to assist the new Pastor of Adult Ministries in his transition to this position.

Chrissie and I are grateful to the people of CCCLH for allowing me to serve as their Pastor of Adult Ministries over the past 3½ years.  It has been an incredible experience and I am grateful for the amazing group of men on the pastoral staff and elder team with whom I have had the privilege and honor to work.  It is amazing to us that the Lord provided this job opportunity right when we first met Torie and Lexie and that it is now ending just as we have completed their adoption.  This allowed Chrissie to stop working outside the home and help the girls adjust to our new family.  We are so grateful that the staff position allowed this to happen.  The Lord knew just what we needed in this time of transition.

I realize this is a challenging time for the church and we will leave it up to you as to how to best communicate this to the staff, elders, and congregation.  Chrissie and I will continue praying for you, the pastors, the elders, and our church family.

Grateful in Christ,

Matthew H. Rouse

Explore posts in the same categories: Church