Forward Together: Hope, Calling, and the Work Ahead

The days between Christmas and the New Year invite a particular kind of attentiveness—one year loosens its grip while another quietly waits to be received. 

It is a threshold moment—an opportunity to give thanks for what has been, while listening for what God may be bringing into being.

As I look toward the year ahead, my heart is filled with gratitude, expectancy, and hope.

This past year included significant change. 

Transitions—especially unexpected ones—have a way of clarifying what truly matters. I remain deeply thankful for the encouragement, prayers, and kindness so many of you have shared along the way. They have been tangible reminders of God’s faithfulness and provision.

As we stand at the beginning of a new year, it feels right to look ahead. What lies ahead is not abstract—it is already taking shape. 

Opportunities on the Horizon

In the coming months, RPM Ministries is preparing for a return trip to Uzbekistan and Armenia in the spring, with a possible visit to Georgia pending final confirmation. These journeys are not about programs or platforms; they are about presence. 

In these regions, pastors and leaders serve faithfully—often under pressure and with limited resources —carrying deep responsibility for the care of others. Many labor quietly and unseen. Too frequently, they are pressed to the point of neglecting the care of their own souls. 

This is where RPM Ministries can come alongside.

Our Mission Is Clear—And Matters 

To nurture the soul care of pastors, leaders, and learners so they may continue to serve from a place of spiritual health, wisdom, and hope. 

Through listening, prayer, spiritual formation, teaching, and mentoring relationships, we seek to strengthen those who pour themselves out for others. 

Pastoral fatigue and leadership exhaustion are not limited to any one country or context. They are realities felt globally. Yet renewal often happens far from the spotlight—through quiet conversations, shared prayer, and the steady reassurance that one is not alone.

Scripture reminds us that God is always at work in new and life-giving ways:

“Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” 

—Isaiah 43:19 (ESV)

As we move into this new year, I am confident—not because the challenges have disappeared—but because God continues to call, equip, and renew His servants.

A Vision That Guides Us

To empower pastors, leaders, and learners to thrive as healthy, effective, and Godly leaders who transform communities and inspire others.

A Prayerful Invitation to Reflect

As we step into a new year, I invite you to pause—not simply to reflect—but to listen. The beginning of a new season is often where God quietly clarifies how He is inviting us to participate in His renewing work.

You may find it helpful to sit with these questions slowly and prayerfully in prayer:

• Where do I sense God stirring my heart as I hear about the work unfolding through RPM Ministries?

Notice what resonates, unsettles, or draws your attention.

• Who are the individuals God has placed in my life who may be carrying unseen weariness?

How might God be inviting me to see them more clearly?

• In what ways might I participate in caring for those who care for others in this coming year—through prayer, encouragement, presence, or support?

There is no single right response, only a faithful one.

• What small, intentional step is God inviting me to take as this new year begins?

Renewal often starts quietly, with willingness rather than certainty.

As you reflect, trust that God is already at work—both in you and through the lives He longs to renew.

Walking Forward Together

If you would like to learn more about RPM Ministries—our heart, our work, and the opportunities ahead—I invite you to visit richardparrish.org. There you’ll find inspirational blogs, spiritual formation resources, and stories that reflect why we do what we do.

As the year draws to a close, some may also feel prompted to support this work through prayer or a year-end gift. 

Your participation—whether through encouragement, generosity, or presence—helps make this ministry of care possible. You will find a secure giving link on our website.

Thank you for walking alongside us. As we step into the year ahead, my prayer is:

 “Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands….” – Psalm 90:17 

Grace and peace to you in the New Year.