We knew this moment would come, though that doesn’t make it any easier to say goodbye. As our time with Rev. Dr. Layne Smith, our Interim Senior Minister, and his wife Dianne draws to a close, we pause to give thanks for the warmth, wisdom, and steady presence they have shared with our church community.

During an important season of transition, Layne and Dianne offered more than leadership—they offered friendship, encouragement, and a gracious spirit that helped guide us through necessary change with care and compassion. Their ministry among us has been marked by welcome, trust, and deep love for this congregation, and we are truly blessed by the time we’ve shared.

Layne’s final Sunday with us will be May 24, and we invite you to help us celebrate and honor their time at MPBC with a lunch reception following Spiritual Growth classes on Sunday, May 17, at 12:00 pm in Heaton Hall.

We’ll gather to enjoy BBQ with all the fixings and dessert, share stories, and express our gratitude for the many ways Layne and Dianne have enriched our church family. Please mark your calendars and plan to join us for this meaningful time of fellowship and celebration.

RSVPs are requested so we can prepare well for everyone. We hope you will come be part of this joyful moment as we thank Layne and Dianne for their faithful ministry and wish them well in their next chapter.

Please RSVP