Moving Forward Together

As many of you are aware, Pastor Mario will be stepping down from his role as Pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Eustis, with his final day of service being April 30.

This is a meaningful moment in the life of our church—not one defined by uncertainty, but by faithful discernment and thoughtful preparation.

Over the past several weeks, your Session has been actively engaged in prayer, conversation, and planning. They have approached this transition with diligence and care, asking important questions, gathering the right information, and seeking wise counsel every step of the way. Their commitment has been clear: to ensure stability, continuity, and faithful leadership for the congregation during this time.

As part of this work, the Session has been meeting directly with Pastor Mario to ensure a thorough and thoughtful passing of information. Systems, responsibilities, rhythms of ministry, and key relationships are all being carefully shared so that nothing is lost and everything is stewarded well in this transition.

Additionally, the Session has committed to meeting weekly on Tuesdays throughout the month of April. These consistent gatherings are helping them stay proactive, aligned, and attentive to both immediate needs and long-term planning.

One of the most important steps in this process has been working closely with the Committee on Ministry (COM) of the Presbytery. This committee helps guide congregations and pastors through seasons just like this—offering oversight, wisdom, and support.

We are grateful to share that the Committee on Ministry has appointed Rev. Dr. Michael Foley to serve as Moderator of the Session beginning in May.

Rev. Dr. Foley is a seasoned minister, a trusted leader, and someone who brings both wisdom and steady presence. He is also a good friend and mentor to Pastor Mario, which adds a meaningful layer of relational continuity during this transition. As a retired pastor and Pastor Emeritus of Ormond Beach Presbyterian Church, he carries years of faithful ministry experience. He is no stranger to Eustis and is looking forward to walking alongside this congregation in this season.

This appointment provides both continuity and pastoral wisdom. Rev. Foley will help guide the Session, support the congregation, and ensure that the ministry of the church continues with strength and clarity.

In addition, the Session is already taking steps to ensure that worship, pastoral care, and the life of the church remain active and meaningful. Plans are being developed thoughtfully, with a focus on both immediate needs and long-term direction.

This is not a moment of pause—it is a moment of movement.

A moment to trust that God is not finished with us yet.A moment to lean into the gifts within this congregation.A moment to continue reflecting and revealing the unselfish love of Christ in all that we do.

If you have any questions, concerns, or simply would like to share your prayers, we invite you to reach out. You may contact Cheryl Matthews, our Administrative Assistant, at office@fpceustis.com, or Alessandra Saunders, the Session’s Stated Clerk, at alesandrasaunders@gmail.com. They will help ensure your voice is heard and your prayers are shared.

Transitions are never easy, but they can be sacred. They remind us that the church does not belong to one person—it belongs to Christ. And Christ remains faithful.

Let us move forward together—with faith, with hope, and with confidence in what God is already doing among us.

Count it all joy.