Say Good-bye to . . . Pastor Ron & Natalie

We’re reversing our “Say Hello to” section this month to recap the farewell held on May 5 for Pastor Ron and Natalie MacDonald.

It was an evening fraught with emotion – lots of laughs and a few tears – as we wished them well in their move to Canada. Master of Ceremonies Jerry Martinez did an artful job of keeping the balance. Who can forget his creative “gifts” such as the pneumatic ice scraper and the sweatshirt for two?

The “Evening With MacDonalds” theme was carried out with placemats, cups and Big Mac boxes generously provided by the MacDonald’s restaurant on Foothills Blvd.

These photos recall some of the more memorable moments.

A video of the entire evening’s program is available to check out from the Church Library.

Pastor Ron and Natalie pose in the Volkswagen “bug.” Designed by our own Jill Henricks, the car delivered “Happy Meals” to Ron and Natalie.

Pastor Ron & Natalie MacDonald

Natalie unwraps a beautiful memory book lovingly created by Janeen Mattiuzzi, Mary Smith and Jill Henricks.

Program participants prepare to lead “God Be With You Till We Meet Again.” Jerry’s remarks kept the moment from becoming too maudlin!

A Thank You Note

Our hearts were truly blessed by the incredible farewell reception. Sincere thanks to the planning committee for a superb program in every detail; we’re glad you had fun planning it.

We will always cherish the album of memories that remind us of you and your love for us. A special thank you for the beautiful Swarovski crystal cross; we will treasure it as a reminder of our time with you. Thank you as well for the many cards, meals, flock gatherings and words of affirmation; we appreciate your kindness so very much. We thank God for the privilege of ministering with you and for the relationships that developed; you have been such an encouragement and blessing to us. We take with us so many memories of you.