To the Editor:
As many in the community know, I, Reverend Ryan Thomas Edward Hale, will be ending my time as pastor at the First Presbyterian Church of Carrollton Dec. 31.

It has been a wonderful three-and-a-half years of ministry in this community.  However, during that time I have continued to hear God’s call to teach. I am first and foremost, a preacher and a teacher; and so I am stepping down from the role of “pastor” to pursue my true calling. 

Currently I am applying to several PhD programs across the country to begin doctoral studies next fall. It is my hope that I can do some teaching as I learn and earn another degree.

Where does this leave the First Presbyterian Church?  Well, the session has already called a new pastor, Reverend Burt McGlawn, from Warren, OH, to take the reigns.  I have met with him and have great hope and confidence in how God will use him in and with the church. 

In the interim I will be doing some supply preaching and preparing for the next chapter of my journey with God. I want to thank the First Presbyterian Church, the Carroll County Ministerial Association, and the entire community of faith for their loving support of me and my family.  May we all continue to work together until Christ’s kingdom comes.

Ryan Hale
Carrollton, OH

<<Back>>

The Free Press Standard invites you to post your thoughts on the story in the box below.

• However, before you post, please read these few basic rules.
• Be appropriate. Posts with obscene, explicit, sexist or racist language will be deleted.
• Be polite. Posts containing personal attacks, insults, or threats will be deleted.
• Be honest. Potentially libelous statements will be deleted.
• Don't 'spam'. Posts advertising or promoting commercial products will be deleted.
• Help monitor your community. Click "Report Abuse" on any entry that violates these guidelines.
• This is your forum, with your opinions.

These posts do not reflect the views of the The Free Press Standard or its employees.