Dearest Gretna,

I have often said that God’s middle name is surprise, because it is a lesson I have learned over and over again in my life (often the hard way). And so it feels especially true as I write this letter to you.

I have been appointed as the Senior Pastor of Rayne Memorial United Methodist Church, effective July 1, 2026. This news comes as a surprise to me in many ways, and at the very top of that list is my deep love for ministry with the people of Gretna United Methodist Church. This was not what I expected, and I know it may not be what you expected either.

And yet, I am reminded once again that if God is good—all the time—then we are called to trust. To trust that even in the unexpected, God is at work, doing a good thing that we may not yet be able to fully see.

We still have meaningful time together between now and July to continue the ministry we have been building and to prepare for what God has next for this incredible community. The privilege of being your pastor, and of glimpsing the kingdom of God here with you, has been one of the greatest joys of my ministry.

With love and hope,

Pastor Marissa

Gretna Family,

And the news continues… Just as the season of Lent calls us into a time of preparation, we find ourselves in a season of transition.

While we begin to prepare to say goodbye to Pastor Marissa, we also prepare to say hello. Rev. Rosmery LaFontaine has been appointed as the Senior Pastor of Gretna United Methodist Church, effective July 1, 2026. We are excited to welcome Pastor Rosmery and her family, trusting that God is already at work in this next chapter of our shared life.Below you will find a brief bio for Pastor Rosmery and her family, offering a glimpse into who she is as we begin preparing to welcome her.

Transitions like this bring many emotions—gratitude, sadness, uncertainty, and hope. Each one is valid, and each one is held by God.

In the coming months, we will have time to celebrate all that God has done in and through our shared ministry. And when the time comes, we will also extend the same warmth, hospitality, and “Gretna Grace” to Pastor Rosmery and her family.

We believe that the Holy Spirit continues to move in and through Gretna United Methodist Church—guiding us, sustaining us, and calling us forward as a community rooted in love, grace, and a deep desire to grow closer to Jesus.

With Gretna Grace,

Nann Galloway (Staff Parish Relations Committee Chair) and Pastor Marissa