They don't want him to go away. We can identify with fearful sorrow when someone goes away. I feel it when members, friends, or neighboring pastors move away. I am home-sick for two of my children, who have moved to other communities. Life just isn't the same in community, congregation, or family.
Life has too many losses.
God is our only unchanging security. It's true that these voids are filled with blessed and meaningful relationships and experiences. Many times I've often wondered how we are ever going to fill the void when an active member moves away, and then God sends more than one new member to take their place, as he does today. We welcome Cecilia, Michele, Melissa, Janice and Kathi into our fellowship of the gospel and look forward to see the mutual blessing we share in Christ unfold. These changes prove to be good - new gifts, abilities, and vision.