1020 S 10th Ave, Safford, AZ 85546, US
From the Pastor
March 2026
By the time this newsletter arrives in your inbox, you will have already heard the news about the new pastor who will be coming in July to serve you here at First UMC Safford. I am grateful that Pastor Rachel has been appointed to this congregation, and I know you will welcome her with the same warmth and generosity you have shown to me.
Even though I will be with you through the end of June, we all know how quickly time passes. These months ahead will move quite fast. Before they do, I want to say clearly and sincerely: thank you. Thank you for your kindness. Thank you for your encouragement. Thank you for your steadfast support as individuals and as a congregation.
Your hospitality has been a true gift to me. From the smallest gestures to the most significant moments of shared ministry, you have reflected the love of Christ in ways that have strengthened and blessed me. My prayer is that you will extend that same gracious hospitality, welcome, and encouragement to Pastor Rachel as she prepares to join you in ministry. The spirit of love and openness that lives at FUMC Safford is one of your greatest testimonies.
As we continue our journey these coming weeks, in this sacred season of Lent, I invite you to remember that Lent invites us into a deeper relationship with Jesus—a journey of prayer, reflection, repentance, and renewal as we move toward the cross.
There are many meaningful ways to experience this Lenten journey:
• Prayer – Setting aside intentional time each day to speak and listen to God. Whether through written prayers, silent contemplation, or walking prayers in the quiet of the morning, prayer centers our hearts on Christ.
• Reading of Scripture– Spending time in the Gospels, especially the passages that trace Jesus’ steps toward Jerusalem. Reading slowly and reflectively allows God’s Word to shape us.
• Self-Examination and Reflection – Lent gently asks us to consider what things might be crowding out Christ in our lives. Where do we need to experience grace? Where might we release distractions and refocus on what truly matters?
• Fasting or Simplicity – Letting go of something that consumes our time or attention can create space for God to speak more clearly.
• Acts of Mercy and Kindness – Serving others, offering forgiveness, giving generously—these are tangible ways we embody the love of Christ.
• Worship and Community – Gathering together reminds us that we do not walk this road alone. As a church family, we journey toward the cross side by side.
Lent is not meant to be a season of heaviness, but of holy intention. As we walk with Jesus toward the cross, we also walk toward resurrection hope. In deepening our relationship with Christ, we discover again that grace meets us every step of the way.
Thank you for allowing me to walk alongside you in this season. It continues to be a privilege to serve among you. Let us use these weeks well—growing in love, extending hospitality, and drawing ever closer to Jesus Christ.
With gratitude and hope,
Pastor Lesli
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
1020 S. 10th Avenue
Safford, AZ 85546
(928) 424-1190
