Dear Grace United Church,
One never knows what the future holds, and moreover, sometimes we wander through a far wilderness to arrive at a destination that is right beside us.
I write this note from my heart with bittersweet emotions. As of January 1, 2025, I will begin serving God through Trinity United Church in Smiths Falls, which is half the distance for me to travel compared to Grace.
In the last four-plus years, Grace United Church has been a great place to serve the Creator and to experience a wonderful time of growth for both me and the Community of Faith. God’s Call to Grace was not in vain.
I faced my fears of driving on County Rd. 32, and together we were able to create newness, such as an Inclusive Marriage Policy, Celebrate Pride, participate in First People’s Events, and so much more. My heart is full, to say the least; because we have truly established bridges of loving relationships that no one can take away. The amazing people at Grace United have become good friends for life. Christmas Eve will be my last Service with Grace, and what a wonderful way this will be for ALL. 
I really thank you all for welcoming me with open arms and the encouraging words that you and others shared with me to take the “Leap of Faith” for whatever God is calling me to do next. In the same way, I invite you and the entire Community of Faith at Grace to take the Leap of Faith for whatever God is calling you all to do together, as you continue to wrestle to find out God’s will as you journey forward.
I know that Grace United is a True Lighthouse for the Light of Christ and Her work is NOT in Vain, because God Calls ALL to the Vision and the Work of God’s Purposes, and equips everyone to get the work done.
I will continue to pray for Grace, as I know, God is still with you as God is also with me. And I am certain that we will run into each other from time to time, as Gananoque will hold a very special place in my heart always.
As I move on from Grace to Trinity, I pray that God’s Love continue to be evident in and through Grace United Church; and may blessings of wisdom abound to all of us as we do the work of the Holy One with Compassion and Joy, no matter where we are found.
I remain humbly – Because of Grace God’s Servant-Daughter,
Rev. Takouhi Demirdjian-Petro B.A., B.Th., M.Div
May the love and grace be with you dear sister where ever you serve in the lord Jesus Christ.
God will bless you and your husband too in the Trinity United Church, Smiths Falls.
Best Regards from Istanbul, Turkey
Mardiros
Thank You, Badveli.
I hope you are enjoying Your vacation!
Blessings,
Takouhi
Dear Takouhi, Although our friendship began many decades ago, we did not have very many “face to face” opportunities…still always felt there was a family attachment somehow.
I am so happy for you on your exciting, new challenge. I have no doubt you will be great in that job and serve the people well.
Good wishes and love…
Sylvia Boyd
Dearest Sylvia,
Just yesterday, I was thinking of my 50th birthday surprise in Palm Springs – Seven years ago around this time.
We have had such great memories and I am so grateful to God and Tupperware in bringing us together.
Your mentorship, and loving presence even miles apart, has shaped my work ethics and brought me where I am now.
Thank you for all your love and support.
Please give our love to Jon as well.
May Blessings of Newness abound,
Takouhi
As you prepare the way for your new pastoral setting, I cherish the knowledge that you have shared a piece of the place and space that my parents loved.
My Dad, Rev. Fred Hewitt, served Grace United in the early – mid 60s, and my Mom, Gertrude, shared in the pastoral role of ‘minister’s wife’ as she cared and supported congregational and community life there with him.
I’ve always hoped to be at Grace some Sunday while you were there, just to remake a circle of love there again. Maybe, before snow flies, I just might make it!!
It will be so lovely to have you visit, Ruth.
Big Hugs,
Takouhi