September Church Transitions
Rev. Tom Walker Retires from Palms Presbyterian Church
After 17 years as Pastor of Palms Presbyterian Church (Jacksonville Beach), the Rev. Tom Walker is retiring effective September 7. Tom and his wife, Jan, have relocated to St. Simons Island, GA, where they will “rest, renew, and maybe even find time to play a round of golf or two, enjoy long walks with our golden Obie, fish, and possibly write a book or two.” He will continue to serve at Columbia Seminary as board chair. Blessings on your retirement as the Palms community begins a new chapter in their life together as a congregation.
Rev. Bob Shettler Retires from First Presbyterian, Gainesville
First Presbyterian Church, Gainesville celebrated the ministry of Rev. Bob Shettler as he retired on August 25. After 14 years as Pastor, Bob and his wife Connie plan to enjoy their retirement in Gainesville. They are looking forward to spending time with their daughters and five school-age grandchildren. The presbytery wishes the Shettlers well in their retirement, as the congregation begins their search for their next pastor.
Rev. Larry Green Receives Doctorate and Expands Ministry as Clinical Director of Gainesville Community Counseling Center
The Rev. Larry Green recently earned a Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northcentral University. His dissertation was entitled “Therapy with Same Sex Couples: A Qualitative, Narrative, Multiple Case Study Providing Insights for Therapists and Training Programs.” Congratulations, Dr. Green!
Dr. Green has now transitioned into full-time therapy and serves as the Executive Director and Clinical Director of the Gainesville Community Counseling Center (GCCC). The counseling center will be one of the programs housed in the Gainesville Ministry Center, located at the former Highlands Presbyterian Church. The GCCC offers individual, group, couples, and family therapy provided by one full-time and 2 part-time therapists. They will soon add horticultural therapy, music therapy, and art therapy. There will also be retreats for couples, LGBTQ youth, and young adults.