Better Together

Dear Friends of NewWay,

I write this letter with mixed feelings. First, with a feeling of loss and disappointment that after 20 years of doing the Schools of Spiritual Direction, and NextStep Schools, I will no longer be teaching those schools. Health issues and reduced energy levels have forced this decision. I could rattle on about the challenges with cancer, fatigue and now diabetes, but that could require a few more pages. Add it up, and at 76, it seemed wise, that this is the time to step down from doing the schools and speaking engagements. Because of the multitude of health issues it has become clear that it is nearly impossible for me to continue any in-person events.

So, we’ve had to change our plan. As you may recall, a few months ago we sent out a letter explaining how NewWay and Larger Story are two separate entities, yet sister ministries. NewWay was the ‘in-person’ ministry and Larger Story focused around my legacy work and the ability to share this relational message with those around the world via an on-line platform. With my health concerns it has become necessary to close NewWay Ministries. That hard decision came a little easier when we realized that our ministries would be ‘better-together’.

While I wrap my head around my health, it’s limitations, and the closing of a ministry that reflected my deepest relational passion, I can feel a sense of excitement and eager anticipation as to what the Lord will do with and through this ‘un-official’ merger of like-minded friends and the team at Larger Story, championed by my son, Kep.

So what does this next season look like from the comfort of my home, I intend to devote my time to – writing new books; hosting webinars/podcasts that allow me to teach the Bible and chat with others; writing articles on various topics; and whatever else seems possible and fitting for me to enhance whatever legacy God would like me to have through Larger Story. It is hard for me to believe that this new chapter will rely solely on computers and the ‘world-wide-web’. If you know me at all, I have stayed away from anything related to computers but have to admit, I am grateful for the big reach they will provide this Christ-Centered relational message I believe is spoken to little of these days.

As I said, my feelings are mixed: loss, sadness, clarity, and hope. Another great loss: Andi, while always a dear friend, will no longer be a colleague in ministry. Without her expert and loyal work, NewWay would not have been able to do what we’ve hopefully done for God’s kingdom. We will be forever grateful for our time with Andi.

I had an opportunity to share what it’s like moving into this new season of limited health, the closing of NewWay Ministries and the hope that remains in the midst of these difficult times on the Larger Story Listen In platform. If you missed it click here.

In closing, these days present many opportunities for delighting the Lord in meaningful ways, including in the way my current theme verse directs:

“We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy… (Colossians 1: 11)

My prayers for me and for you: may we never complain that life’s losses are too much; there is always somewhere to go as we put all our hope in the day when Jesus returns and we all get to heaven. In the meantime, God is continuing to do His work.

In Christ,

Larry

P.S. As we transition, your info will move over to Larger Story so you can stay connected to all that is happening. Larger Story and Team will keep you posted on this next season and our upcoming projects, podcasts, etc. We move in hope that more is yet to come!