WATSONVILLE—Last Thursday Rev. Robin Mathews-Johnson, who has served as pastor of the Watsonville First United Methodist Church since 1999, was given a fond farewell as she moved on to her new assignment at a church in Fresno.
The event, organized by her congregation and the greater community, came as a complete surprise to the longtime pastor.
“I was totally blown away by the outpouring of support from my church and community,” she said. “I had no idea what was in store for me—so much love, support, well-wishes and blessings. I have never felt so loved and supported by so many people. All I can say is a million thank you’s.”
Beyond her duties as pastor, Mathews-Johnson helped create a swimming lesson program at the YMCA, a community garden, the Watsonville Music Program and Youth Chorus, a local Neighborhood Watch, the Journey to Hope Foundation and Watsonville NETworX, a program aiming to help people out of poverty.
In addition, Mathews-Johnson designated First United Methodist as a Reconciling Congregation, pledging to accept and support LGBTQ+ members. She also helped expand the work of the Communities Organized for Relational Power in Action and funded improvements at Flodberg Park.
On Thursday, former Watsonville city councilman Felipe Hernandez awarded Mathews-Johnson a proclamation from the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors on behalf of Fourth District Supervisor Greg Caput, honoring her for her advocacy and work in the community.
Hernandez said the proclamation was to honor her “for all the work she has done in the community … for inspiring and transforming the lives of people beyond the congregation … thanking her for the numerous projects she started that touched the lives of families and youth in Watsonville.”
Pastor Rev. John Juno Song officially takes the helm of Watsonville First United Methodist Church later this week.
