**A Letter from Our Bridge Pastor**

Rev. Barbara K. Peronteau

Once I realized that life was weird, I was able to roll with it a lot better. Life events that tend to be described as weird are usually unexpected and exciting at the same time. That’s a good thing. The typical response might be, “I didn’t see that coming.” We make plans and then weird happens.

After being unemployed for 29 months, I was hired by Wal*Mart. Three years later I was asked to be part of a year-long CPE experience at the Reading (PA) Hospital where I served as a Resident Chaplain. After which, I moved to Berkeley to live with my old flame from over 30 years ago. I was given the opportunity to serve a Lutheran Church in San Leandro. I didn’t see any of that coming. I am seriously grateful for it all.

Now, here I am. Not only am I a member here, but now I am also your Bridge Pastor. I didn’t see this coming either. The opportunity arose and I threw my hat in the ring. The Bridge Pastor Search Team liked my hat, and so, here I am. I remain seriously grateful.

You might ask what a Bridge Pastor is. I am here to bridge the gap between Pastor Nate and our next pastor. I am here to help you turn the page to the next chapter in the life of ACC.

Just like any other pastor, my job description includes preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ, celebrating the sacraments, pastoral care, teaching, attending meetings, preparing for worship, and writing newsletter articles.

As we walk across the bridge together in covenant with God, the other side of the bridge may appear foggy and unclear. Together we will get there, because like anyone who lives in the Bay Area knows, at some point the fog rolls away and the day becomes clear and bright.

Peace and wonder,

~ Pastor Barbara