Dear Editor,

I am writing to express my appreciation for the ministry of David Payne who recently resigned from his call as the Pastor of The Church at Covington.   For many years David has reached across lines that divide us, helping us to hear Jesus’ command to love one another.  He has challenged Jesus’ disciples to live out Jesus’ prayer that we may be one.  His concern for the voiceless, for the powerless, for those yearning to know the love of God, has shaped us more into the community God calls us to be.

In some of my own most difficult moments, David has been there for me, to remind me of the grace of God and the power of God’s Holy Spirit to forgive and heal, and make all things new.  Thank you, David, and may God continue to bless you as you move on into the new things God has for you.

William B. Wade, Jr.

Pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Covington