The Phoenix East, Arizona, congregation said a bittersweet farewell to pastor John Elliott and his wife Merrie on Feb. 14, 2015. After 13 years of dedicated service to the area, they are being transferred to Washington state.

At the conclusion of the sermon, Mr. and Mrs. Elliott had each of the ordained men and women with their spouses come to the stage one by one. There he presented each with a wooden plaque of appreciation for dedicated service. It was a tearful moment for all involved.

This was followed by a series of presenters, who after some short stories or comments, presented the Elliotts with gifts. These included a pair of galoshes for each of them, a pair of jackets, a printed congregational photo book with personal notes, and a blanket with each family’s name stitched on a colorful leaf. The Show Low congregation also presented them with a personalized boot mat for their “mud room.”  All were appropriate gifts for life in Washington, where they will now pastor both the Seattle and Sedro Woolley congregations.

Everyone then shared a potluck meal and chocolate cake inscribed with “We love you Mr. and Mrs. Elliott.”

It was a sad day of new beginnings for all. For the Elliotts in their new area, but also for the Phoenix East congregation, as we will be combining with the Northwest congregation.