“If this is your first time at Mariners… “

If you’ve ever been to a service at Mariners Mission Viejo, someone has said that to you. It’s always been the intent, the heart, and the belief of our church that Mariners would be the church for people who have either never been to church before or haven’t been in a really long time. New people, those you’ve been inviting — people who are longing for that thing they can’t quite put their finger on, they’re fearful that they won’t know what to say or what to do, or if they’ll even be acknowledged should they take some courageous steps into the church.

But, since the very first Sunday gathering at Mariners Mission Viejo, in December of 2009, there has always been a consistent voice of welcome. That voice has been Kim Alexander’s. When the church was only one theater (without a central dividing wall) and the weekend messages were by video, Kim was the first to say to the church:

“If this is your first time at Mariners…we’re so glad you’re here.”

At that time, everyone was new. Kim and a few others invented the “way we do things around here.” They created the culture. They put into place the foundation for the way we are. If you’ve ever loved being a part of our church… If you’ve ever thought, “I’m glad I have this church to be my home”… If you’ve ever thought, “I love bringing my friends here…” You have Kim to thank for a significant part in that.

And now, after lots of conversation, shared memories, laughter, and deliberation, Kim has decided to step down in her role at Mariners Mission Viejo. She plans to focus on being a mom and continue her education. As she and her husband Matt have made their home in Irvine, they’ll be making the transition out of the Mission Viejo community and back to their own neighborhood: inviting people to church who long for that “thing they can’t quite put their finger on.” Kim will continue to embody the Jesus we talk about and walk with. She’ll continue to help people who are new to Jesus find the welcome they deserve.

Kim’s last Sunday will be on August 2nd. Feel free to let her know how much you appreciate her and how much she’s meant to you and those you’ve invited over the years.

I’m grateful to have worked with such a talented, insightful, and courageous person. Kim will be missed greatly.

So to you, Kim, speaking on behalf the church: We are all so glad YOU’VE been here.

See you Sunday,

Jeff