A LETTER FROM CHRIS COLI
(On Sunday, January 7, Senior Pastor Chris Coli announced his upcoming plans to transition into a new role outside of CrossWinds Church in order to answer God's call for this next season of ministry. Below, you’ll find the text of the letter he sent to our church family after his announcement - for more details and context, please find Chris’ sermon from January 7 above, and in the event of questions, concerns, or needed clarity, please reach out to any of our pastors- they, along with our elders, will be available after our Sunday services.)
Dear CrossWinds Family,
I'm writing to share some news with you today—news that brings me both excitement and a touch of bittersweetness. After 16 incredible years at CrossWinds, I'm embarking on a new journey, one that will see me transition out of my Senior Pastor role while remaining part of the CrossWinds family I love so dearly.
This wasn't a decision I took lightly. I've poured my heart and soul into serving this church, and the bond I share with you is one I wouldn't trade for anything. But sometimes, God calls us onto unexpected paths, paths that may stretch our comfort zone but ultimately lead us to a deeper purpose.
That call has come to me through WellSpring, a ministry dedicated to caring for the souls of pastors. See, in the 30 years I've served as a pastor, I've witnessed firsthand the immense pressure and vulnerability that comes with this calling. I've seen pastors, gifted and passionate, struggle with burnout, loneliness, and even the dark side of ministry, often silenced by the expectation to be a pillar of strength.
WellSpring's mission resonates deeply within me. It's about creating a safe haven for pastors and ministry leaders, a place where they can find solace, support, and the chance to tend to their own souls so they can continue tending to the needs of others. This opportunity to play a role in such a crucial ministry feels like an extension of my calling—a way to use my experience to serve not just a single congregation, but the wider community of pastors who dedicate their lives to spreading God's love.
Now, I understand this news might raise some questions. What happens to CrossWinds? When will this transition take place? And what about Andrea? Let me address these questions head-on.
First, I'm not leaving tomorrow. We'll be conducting a thorough search for a new Senior Pastor—and until then, I'll be here leading, teaching, and supporting the church just as I always have. I want this transition to be smooth and seamless, ensuring that the mission and spirit of CrossWinds continue to thrive. My commitment to this church remains unwavering.
As for Andrea, she has a powerful call of her own—one that strongly resonates within the walls of CrossWinds. She will continue to be your Teaching Pastor, bringing her leadership, wisdom, and passion to this community.
I know this might come as a surprise, and I want to assure you that I haven't made this decision impulsively. I've spent months in prayer, seeking God's guidance and weighing every possibility. In the end, I believe this is the right path for me and for the future of CrossWinds.
I invite you to watch the video recording of this Sunday's service, where I shared the full story of my call to WellSpring, the timeline for the transition, and my unwavering faith in the potential of CrossWinds to be a force for the hope of Jesus in our world. You can find the video above.
This isn't goodbye, friends. It's the start of a new chapter—a chapter filled with hope, growth, and the continued pursuit of God's purpose for this remarkable church. I'm grateful for your unwavering support and love throughout my time as your Senior Pastor, and I know that bond will continue to bind us together as we move forward on this new journey. AND… I’m going to be here in this role for quite some time as we go thru our search for the future Senior Pastor of CrossWinds.
Thank you for walking beside me. I trust we will all experience God’s continued guidance and blessing in this.
With gratitude and love,
Pastor Chris