by E. Ross

Rev. Johnathan Jones is leaving MCC Anchorage, and the church is hosting a farewell potluck in his honor. 

“I have had a wonderful and rewarding time working with our church and community,” said Rev. Jones. “However, it is now time for me to move on.” 

Johnathan worked hard to build the church and the gay community during his four years as pastor of MCC Anchorage, a gay and lesbian-inclusive church that welcomes everyone. In addition to leading MCC, he spoke at UAA, lobbied politicians, and was a board member of several LGBT organizations, including PrideFest and Identity. His good works and admirable qualities are the subjects of an earlier post, Appreciating Rev. Jones.

“We are very sad to have him go, but wish him well in his new endeavors,” said Edie Bailey, MCC board member. “He has been a very dynamic personality in Anchorage and will certainly leave a hole in the church and in the community.”

To thank him for his contributions and wish him well in his next location, MCC invites the community to Johnathan’s last Sunday service on May 25. The service begins at 2 p.m., and the potluck will follow at 3 p.m.

In June, MCC Anchorage will begin the next stage in it’s development. “We are going to have a tough time without a minister,” said Edie. “We have lined up some guest speakers and pastors, but we need everyone to pitch in.”

During this transition, the board will need help with singing and reading scripture at the Sunday service, bringing refreshments and paper goods, and preparing the food and program for the Thursday Night Soul Food service.

Johnathan’s last day at MCC is May 31, and he will be leaving the country soon after. “A great opportunity has come up for me and I have decided to pursue it,” he said. “My visa expires this year, so it seems God has been planning my next step.”

“I will always have fond memories of my first Parish.”

Add your good wishes to Rev. Johnathan Jones in the comment section: