Important Announcement

Dear Church,

It truly is a season of transition for us, as we settle into new locations, discover new rhythms, and welcome new staff! In the midst of that, another change has come: our beloved Bonnie Parker has offered her resignation to the Lead Team, and we have accepted. This seems to be the best way for Bonnie to say “yes” to what God has for her in this moment: giving her energy to her family, her health, and her creative work.

Bonnie came to Access in 2017, joined leadership in 2019, and eventually took her staff position in 2024. Her ministry with us has been nothing short of game-changing. Her investment in our children and families has had a profound impact that will continue even as she leaves staff. “Thank you Bonnie” can hardly describe the gratitude we feel for the love she has expressed with us. Here's a note from Bonnie, in her own words:

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From Bonnie

Dear Access Family,

I’m writing to share my resignation as Ministry Coordinator and Children’s Pastor officially effective October 1. Although I stepped back over the summer, we haven’t yet shared this news with the whole community. These roles have meant so much to me, and I am grateful for the trust you placed in me and the work we’ve shared.

A little about my health: I’ve been in aggressive treatment for Stage 4 metastatic melanoma for the past 21 months. The cumulative effects of illness and treatment required me to step away from my small business and from my work at Access. I’ve also had to limit my contact with others due to compromised immunity. My recent scans show no evidence of active disease, meaning **I no longer have cancer._** This is incredibly hopeful! Repeat scans in January will confirm. My chances of beating this cancer were incredibly low, so I’m grateful for my treatment team and their willingness to “go big” on treatment. I’m continuing immunotherapy as a little insurance policy. The type I’m on causes pain and exhaustion, so recovering my strength and stamina will still be an uphill climb. But I’m showing up for it every day! There is healing ahead. _ Through all of this, I have seen our Access vision — “that all God’s children may be whole” — take shape in ordinary, tangible acts of love. You have cared for me and for Mikey with meals, treats, flowers, DoorDash deliveries, rides, help at home, time at the beach, and steady companionship. You have made room for our needs without asking us to have everything figured out. That care has helped hold us together.

That same spirit in you is reaching far beyond my little family. I see you, Access family, caring for one another, making room for new neighbors, and taking seriously the dignity of all God’s children. I see hope in your willingness to keep showing up, and resilience in the ways you adapt, share the work, and begin again. These are gifts our community needs, and gifts the wider world needs from us.

I’m especially grateful to Joel, Jelani, and the Lead Team for navigating this transition with care; to Erin and Julie and their crew of helper fairies who show up for all the things. I join you in welcoming Julie and Avery to their new roles and am well pleased at their excellent work and care for you all, and for what they bring to our children and community. Please extend to them the patience, generosity, and support you have offered me. Access thrives through all the hands willing to tend it.

I don’t know yet what’s next in my life, or what my future volunteer involvement at Access will be; I intend to serve when I can and will wait for the Holy Spirit to direct me. In retirement, I’m rediscovering art and writing, and spending a lot of time with Mikey. For now, my work is to heal, and to care for my family. I look forward to seeing you in person soon — sharing a table, hearing your stories, and being among you again.

With love, gratitude, and hope,

Bonnie

One more word of thanks: to Carol, James and Veronica, Adam and Dulce, Katy, Luke, and Kat, Chris G, and to everyone who has sent cards, letters, and flowers. Each kindness has reminded us that we are loved and held in this community.

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From all of us

Bonnie, we love you. When you came to us, we just wanted to be your church. What an absolute delight to watch you heal, grow, and minister among us. As the season changes, we are delighted to continue the journey together, as your church.

As we often tell each other: We exist for the healing of all God's children. In this next season, we are honored to walk with you at a healing pace.

Onward in the love and grace of Jesus, who as always, gives us Access to God.