Our little church plant had its last service today (location issues, not enough people attending and just not financially viable to stay open). So many emotions! We started our journey 4 years ago and have grown so much with the team that became family. I feel sad, but don’t regret a single thing.
A few pictures from our last building (4th one in 4 years, not including all the homes we met in) as we painted and prepped for services.
What I shared in service today:
Curtis and Eileen, thank you for being faithful and coming to NY to plant a church. I know it didn’t turn out how any of us thought, but your leadership and friendship over the past 4 years has been something I’ll treasure. What you helped plant in my heart and my faith is something I’ll be able to share with my kids and take with us on the next part of our family’s journey.
Curtis, I’m just blown away by your always-ready willingness to serve others. I don’t know another pastor who would get down on hands and knees and do childcare for our moms group. Out of necessity, yes…but you did it every single time. I’m so thankful for your leadership, hard work and perseverance.
Eileen, thank you for showing me how a strong woman can be in ministry. Thank you for your friendship, your hit-the-nail-on-the-head preaching and your openness. Always willing to listen, show compassion and just being yourself. Please don’t ever stop being you, I like you.
Justin, I hope Ben grows up to be like you. You’re a kind, compassionate leader and I loved seeing you succeed at pretty much everything you tried a hand at up here. Listen for God’s move first, and then follow him with everything you’ve got. You’re going to be an awesome husband and dad some day!
Jeremy, thank you for being so awesome with my kids! Whether it was at Mops, Kid’s church or just at your house, they always looked forward to their time with you. Ben prays any time one of his friends gets a boo-boo because you modeled that for him.
Josh, thanks for sharing your legos with the kids and reading with them. Ben still wants to find a kid’s version of “The Hobbit” because you introduced him to chapter books. Also, thanks for diligently helping with set up, mops, kids church and everything else I’m sure you got “dragged” into, but did anyway!
Jaeleya, you’ve always been so welcoming and made us feel special every time we see you…like there’s no one else you’d rather see! That and your smile are some of your beautiful strengths. Keep figuring out who you are in God as his daughter and princess, totally accepted and completely secure.
To the whole family: You might be scared and incredibly overwhelmed but God says “I am with you, I want you to follow my lead. This will be a ride but if you trust me you’ll soar.” Also, guys, don’t be afraid to pastor again, it’s in your DNA. Love you guys!
Here’s to the next chapter!
