A Season of Change, A Season of Hope

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven…” — Ecclesiastes 3:1

Living in Texas, we often joke that we only have two real seasons—hot and mosquito. Unlike the dramatic shifts of northern climates with their changing leaves, icy winters, and vibrant springs, our weather doesn’t always give us visible markers of change. But the seasons of life—and the seasons within the life of a church—are far more profound than anything the thermometer can measure.

As we enter the Christmas season, many of us feel the familiar hurry and worry that can obscure the wonder of Christ’s birth. Some of our churches and families will celebrate Advent, remembering the anticipation of the coming Messiah. Perhaps you practiced these traditions when your children were young or when your church was in a different season of life. But as time moves on, children grow, homes empty, congregations shift, and traditions change. Seasons change.

Scripture teaches us that these transitions are not only natural but purposeful. Winter, for example, is a season of rest and endurance. Roots dig deeper, conserving strength for the coming burst of spring. When warmth returns, seeds long dormant push through the soil in a display of renewal. Summer brings heat that forces those roots deeper again, preparing for resilience. Eventually fall arrives, shedding what is no longer needed, and the cycle begins anew.

These rhythms are not unique to creation. They are mirrored in our work lives, family lives, sports seasons, and—sometimes most painfully—in church life. Churches experience seasons of vibrant growth, seasons of plateau, seasons of hardship, and sometimes seasons that come to an end. For those who have walked through the closing of a church, they know that grief often comes with more questions than answers, with tears and frustration, and with deep mourning. A church is more than a building—it is the place where children were born, couples were married, casseroles were shared, and new life in Christ forever altered family trees. It is a spiritual home filled with milestones, memories, and meaning.

On Sunday, December 7, First Baptist Church of Rosenberg will gather for worship one final time. After more than 125 years of gospel presence, their season as a local congregation is coming to an end. We grieve for this faithful church and for the generations they have impacted. Yet even in this sorrow, we cling to the truth that God loves His church, and He is always working out His sovereign and beautiful plan.

And remarkably, the story of FBC Rosenberg does not end here. Through prayerful discernment and wise counsel, the congregation has chosen to disperse their financial assets to more than 20 ministries, enabling gospel work both locally and globally. Their generosity is planting new seeds of ministry—to ensure that the gospel reaches future generations. Churches, associations, children’s homes, and mission efforts will continue kingdom work because of their sacrifice. Beyond financial gifts, they have blessed other ministries with physical resources—choir materials, office supplies, nursery items, and even toys for South Texas Children’s Homes.

While we mourn the close of this chapter, we must not lose sight of the hopeful new season emerging from their generosity. Their legacy will not fade; it will flourish in the lives changed by the gospel through these ministries.

As we move through this season of Advent and Christmas, may we pray for peace for those experiencing change. And may we give heartfelt thanks for First Baptist Rosenberg—for their faithfulness, their courage, and their commitment to honor God all the way to the end.

“Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think… to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” – Ephesians 3:20–21

Celebrating Pastor of the Week: Pastor Howard Daniel

This week, the San Felipe Baptist Association is honored to recognize Pastor Howard Daniel as our Pastor of the Week. Pastor Howard has been faithfully serving as the Interim Pastor at First Baptist Rosenberg, and we are deeply grateful for the steady leadership, heartfelt care, and spiritual wisdom he has brought to the church during a challenging season of transition.

Pastor Howard is no stranger to guiding congregations with grace. With more than 40 years of ministry experience, he has pastored several churches throughout his ministry journey and has served as an interim pastor to many congregations across our region. God has uniquely gifted and called him to walk alongside churches in moments of change, offering clarity, compassion, and a shepherd’s heart when it is needed most.

At First Baptist Rosenberg, Pastor Howard has loved the people well. His calming presence, gentle leadership, and unwavering trust in God have helped the congregation navigate this transitional period with renewed hope and unity. He has led not only with experience, but with deep humility and a sincere love for Christ’s church.

Beyond the pulpit, Pastor Howard enjoys the beauty of God’s creation. When he has a few days to spare, you can often find him outdoors, especially on a peaceful hiking trail. His love for nature reflects his quiet, steady spirit and his appreciation for the simple gifts God provides.

Today, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Pastor Howard for his commitment to God’s Kingdom and for his faithful service to His bride—the Church. Thank you, Pastor Howard, for the way you love God’s people, for your dedication to strengthening churches, and for the hope you bring wherever God leads you. We are blessed by your ministry and thankful for your ongoing service.