Are We There Yet?
When
our daughters were young the most common question asked while we were
on holidays was; “Are we there yet?” We would leave Calgary on
our way to Nova Scotia when before Calgary's city limits were reached
the question from the backseat was; “Are we there yet?”
Most
of you are aware that my plans call for retirement this summer. Some
of you may be wondering; “Are we there yet?” The truth of the
matter is, “No, we are not there as yet.” Jill and I are waiting
for our US Green Cards which were applied for last December. Before
the Green Cards are given and we are free to move to the US and to
our home in Florida a number of gates must be passed. First, we need
to secure tentative approval, secondly we must complete many forms
and declarations, third we must send in security reports, medical
records etc. etc. Fourth, we must wait for a date to attend a meeting
at the US Consulate here in Bermuda. Fifth, we attend the interview
at which we hope and pray that final approval is given. Where are we
in our journey? Jill has received her tentative approval and I am
still waiting for mine! When will we arrive? If only I knew!
So
what is happening in the meantime? Well, my three year workpermit
comes to a close the end of July. However, the congregation has
secured a three month extension to my permit. When this extension
comes into play on August 1st I will only be working
parttime at St. Andrews. Parttime employment will consists in
preaching on Sundays and emergency visits through the week for a
total of about four hours. We are hoping that during this three month
period we will hear from our Green Card application. In the meantime
we are keeping busy with pastoral work along with some packing.
Perhaps in my next blog I can share with you what are plans are once
we reach Florida!
From Your Pastor & Friend,
John
