May 2003

NINE YEARS

             February 15 marked the completion of our ninth year together.  It is unusual for United Methodist pastors to remain that long at a church, especially when significant (and at times controversial) changes tool place during that time.  Very few churches weather those storms and come out on the positive side.  Many churches try to solve conflicts by moving the pastor.  But we have gone through difficult, as well as, good times together, and today we have a thriving church with more activities and ministries than anyone person can keep track of.  During this time we have added a full-time music director, a full-time pastor of outreach and part time youth directors.  Joanna, Eli, Jeremy & Lisa, and Linda have been great blessings to our church.  None of them were here nine years ago.  It is because of this skilled and spirited staff that the church is so healthy and strong.  I cannot even imagine what we would have done without these dedicated professionals.  Nine years ago our attendance averaged 200; today our average is over 250 and we are still growing.  We have had to add an extra service.  This Easter we had 460 people - our largest attendance ever.  We have made the first service very contemporary in its style of music and informal atmosphere.  People have responded well to the new service.  We had so many people in this service Sunday that we had to seat people in the narthex.  The choir for the second service has grown and adds so much to our traditional worship.  From one small Bible study group we have grown to the Wednesday Connection where six groups meet, and some are needing more space.  Children and young people have their own groups as well.  This is where significant spiritual growth is taking place with excellent lay leadership.  Nine years ago we had two adult Sunday School classes.  Today we have four, and some of them have outgrown their space.  One class recently had over 50 adults.  The quality of the teaching and the spirit of the classes are inspiring.  From one struggling youth group nine years ago, we have grown to three.  And don't forget that we often have over 50 young people coming on Saturday Nights for the wagon ministry.  Much more could be said about the Women's Ministries, Neighborhood Friendship Teams, and much more, but sufficient to say that we have experienced God's blessing.  He has brought us together and made it possible.  The future is as bright as the promises of God. 

Looking forward to what is ahead,